Wednesday 26th August 2020 - 13:37 (BST)
The pound edged back up to the top of the recent range against both the Euro and US dollar, despite investor concerns over Brexit negotiations. However, with much of Europe yet to return from their traditional Summer holiday season, volatility is expected to pick-up next week.
The current transition period ends on December 1st, with the UK and EU keen to strike a deal well in advance of the deadline. An agreement between the two parties now needs to be reached by the end of October so it can be ratified and passed by both institutions, however there is an option to extend this until November.
There has been good progress in areas such as aviation and security, but also sticking points over key areas of trade and fisheries.
Elsewhere, rumours stemming from the father-in-law of one of Boris Johnsons special advisors has cast doubt over UK Prime Ministers political future. There is speculation that the PM is struggling with the effects of coronavirus and could step down within six months. Both Mr Johnson and Downing Street strenuously denied the claims.
