Global Markets Shift: Dollar Surges as Euro and Pound Tumble, Bitcoin Nears Unprecedented Heights

The euro hit a two-year low as global markets experienced shifts. While the U.S. business activity showed growth, the eurozone and UK faced contractions. The dollar strengthened and Bitcoin surged toward $100,000 amid changed investor expectations and potential policy shifts after the U.S. election.

The euro plummeted to a two-year low on Friday, prompting global financial analysts to eye the currency markets with caution. This decline coincided with a surge in the dollar as new business activity data in key regions altered investment landscapes significantly.

HCOB's preliminary composite eurozone Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, fell to 48.1 in November. This marks a 10-month low, indicating contraction, while Britain's PMI also dropped, as tax hikes appeared to cool economic activity. In stark contrast, U.S. business sectors showed expansion, with the S&P Global's Composite PMI Output Index climbing to a 19-month high.

The dollar's rise further pressured the euro, as the greenback recorded a third consecutive weekly gain. Meanwhile, Bitcoin's journey upward continued, fueled by expectations of a favorable regulatory climate from the incoming Trump administration. Central banks worldwide now grapple with interest rate decisions to stabilize their economies amid these rapid changes.

(With inputs from agencies.)