Euro fluctuates after German election

The euro seesaws as traders digest Germany’s election outcome and inflation data.

By Ahmed Azzam | @3zzamous | 24 February 2025

Market close
  • Euro gains, then pares back after German election results.

  • CDU/CSU secures 28.6% of votes, coalition talks ahead.

  • Far-right AfD and Left Party hold a blocking minority.

  • Eurozone inflation confirmed at 2.5% in January, highest since July 2024.

Market reaction

The euro jumped as much as 0.6% before retreating below $1.05 on Monday, reflecting investor uncertainty over Germany’s election results. The center-right CDU/CSU bloc won 28.6% of the vote, in line with expectations, but must form a coalition to secure a parliamentary majority. Friedrich Merz is on track to become chancellor, yet prolonged negotiations loom. The far-right AfD and the Left Party collectively hold a third of the seats, potentially stalling key legislative efforts.

Inflation pressures persist

Eurozone inflation was confirmed at 2.5% in January 2025, its highest level since mid-2024, primarily fueled by surging energy costs. Core inflation, stripping out food and energy, remained steady at 2.7% for a fifth straight month, marking its lowest level since early 2022. Consumer prices fell 0.3% month-over-month, following a 0.4% gain in December.

Economic calendar: Key data to watch

Tuesday: Japan corporate service price index, Germany GDP final, US house price index, consumer confidence.

Wednesday: Australia monthly CPI, Germany Gfk consumer sentiment, US new home sales.

Thursday: New Zealand business confidence, Swiss GDP, ECB meeting accounts, US GDP revision, jobless claims, durable goods orders.

Friday: Japan Tokyo CPI, Germany retail sales & CPI flash, Swiss retail sales, Canada GDP, US PCE inflation, trade balance.