BNP Paribas expects the euro to strengthen against the dollar as Europe grows and US fiscal policy shifts

    by VT Markets
    /
    Mar 9, 2026
    BNP Paribas Economic Research Team expects the euro to rise against the US dollar, based on changes in US fiscal policy and firmer growth in Europe. It forecasts EUR/USD at 1.20 by Q4 2026. Euro area growth is projected at 1.5% in 2025 and 1.6% in 2026. It is expected to run at 0.5% per quarter during 2026.

    Euro Dollar Outlook

    For 2027, growth is forecast to average 1.6% due to a carryover effect, even with a slower quarterly pace of 0.3% q/q. The outlook assumes fiscal measures in Germany, higher military spending, and AI-related investment in Europe, with a resilient labour market. The EU–US trade agreement is described as precarious, while tensions with China are said to be rising, adding uncertainty. Inflation is expected to stay below the 2% target in 2026. Inflation is expected to pick up in 2027 at a moderate pace, leading the ECB to raise rates in H2 2027. BNP Paribas sees the deposit facility rate reaching 2.5%. We see the Euro gaining ground against the Dollar, making this a key moment to position for a steady rise. For the coming weeks, derivative traders should consider establishing long positions, such as buying EUR/USD call options with expirations in late 2026. This strategy aligns with the forecast of a gradual move towards 1.20 by the fourth quarter.

    Trading Strategy Considerations

    The view of strengthening European growth is supported by recent data, as we saw the flash composite PMI for the Eurozone tick up to 51.2 in February, showing a clear expansion in economic activity. This momentum is fueled by Germany’s fiscal measures and increased investment across the continent. This contrasts with signs of a slowdown in the United States, where the latest retail sales figures for February showed a slight 0.2% decline. Looking back, we saw the European economy hold up well throughout 2025, which built a solid foundation for this year’s expected acceleration. This relative strength makes the Euro an attractive asset. The gradual nature of the forecasted appreciation suggests that implied volatility may not be excessively high, potentially offering good value on longer-dated options. With Eurozone inflation remaining below target, as seen in February’s flash estimate of 1.8%, the European Central Bank is not expected to raise rates until next year. This policy stability allows the focus to remain on the strengthening growth fundamentals driving the currency. Therefore, traders can position for the euro’s appreciation without the immediate risk of a surprise rate hike. Create your live VT Markets account and start trading now.

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