The British pound has strengthened against the U.S. dollar following a new Brexit agreement between the U.K. and the European Union in May 2025. This agreement aims to improve post-Brexit relations, addressing key areas such as security, energy, trade, travel, and fisheries.
In the U.S. markets, the S&P 500 showed a slight increase of 0.1% on May 19, marking its sixth consecutive winning session. The Nasdaq Composite also edged up, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 0.32%, driven by a rebound in UnitedHealth's stock.
Tensions remain as China accuses the U.S. of undermining trade agreements, particularly after warnings against using Chinese chips, specifically those from Huawei. A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce has called on the U.S. to rectify its approach to trade negotiations.
European stock markets have remained relatively stable, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 showing little change, reflecting a cautious but steady economic sentiment across the continent.