When it comes to navigating the world of foreign exchange and international payments, knowledge is your best ally. That's why we've compiled a guide to the key dates and financial events in May 2025 to be aware of when making cross-border payments.
Whether you're a seasoned trader or just dipping your toes into the financial waters, understanding these economic indicators can make a significant impact, and allow you to make informed financial decisions.
Read on to stay informed and discover how we can empower your international financial transactions, or visit our Economic Calendar for May.
The big event to kick off the month as ever is the US job numbers. In light of President Trump's tariffs, there has been a lot of uncertainty created lowering the optimism over the US economy and its job market. Numbers to suggest that the job market is worse than expected will continue to add to recent negative narrative surrounding the economy and will likely see a weaker US dollar and could even add to further rate cut bets from the Fed. The Bank of Japan interest rate meeting is also this week but no change expected by the Bank
Week two is "Fed week", with no change in interest rates expected at the FOMC meeting on May 7th. However, in light of recent criticism from Trump the push to lower interest rates, the spotlight will on Fed chair Powell and which way he pushes the Fed interest rate decision narrative.
Recent data has shown that even before tariffs were announced the US economy was already stagnating with growth in the first quarter at -0.3% and the core PCE inflation number coming in much higher than expected. So more than likely the Fed will continue their hawkish narrative unless of course the prior weeks job numbers paints a different picture. We also have the Bank of England interest rate decision this week, where markets are currently fully pricing in a 25bp rate cut.
UK GDP and job numbers will be the key metrics for the pound this week, as we see how the UK performed in the first quarter of this year. US inflation numbers for April are also out in the form of US PPI and US CPI as we look to see the early impact of tariffs on prices stateside. We also get to see the spending habits of consumers in the US with the release of retail sales numbers
The Reserve Bank of Australia is widely expected to cut interest rates by 0.25% during its May 20th meeting, though its subsequent commentary may adopt a hawkish tone due to recent CPI data indicating that inflationary pressures remain persistent. In the UK, UK CPI figures will be released on Tuesday, followed by retail sales data on Friday.
In the last days of the month, we await the FOMC minutes from the Fed meeting from earlier this month, which will provide more colour on any decision made as well as the accompanying commentary. Secondary readings of GDP and core PCE for Q1 will be released at the end of the week.
Now that you're aware of the key economic events taking place in 2025, let's talk about how Equals Money can elevate your international payments experience. Our service is designed to make your life easier and transactions smoother.
In conclusion, staying informed about key economic calendar indicators, events, and dates is vital for making informed financial decisions. Whether you're monitoring GBP, EUR, or USD, these dates can significantly impact your currency exchange rates.
For the dates, events, and economic indicators that matter most to businesses, investors, and economic enthusiasts. Our Economic Calendar offers comprehensive insights into the meaningful indicators influencing market movements and FX rates across the UK, US, and EU.
*Equals Money can only offer forward contracts to facilitate payments for goods and services.
Sign up to our daily market reports to get the latest news and insights on worldwide currency movements straight to your inbox every morning.
Enter your email address below to subscribe.
