Economic news

Sterling, Gilt Prices Hold Lower after Starmer Steps Down

LONDON, June 22 (Reuters) - Britain's pound and government bond prices held lower on Monday to Prime Minister ​Keir Starmer resigning, potentially paving the way ‌for rival Andy Burnham to take over as Britain's seventh leader in a decade.

Sterling was last down ​0.27% at $1.3202, showing little change on ​levels traded earlier, while holding steady against ⁠the euro , which traded at 0.867 pounds.

Benchmark ​10-year UK gilt prices were also relatively steady, ​leaving yields up 1 basis point on the day at 4.85%, unchanged from where they were prior to the ​announcement.

British share indexes held steady after the ​announcement with the blue chip FTSE 100 index a whisker ‌lower ⁠on the day, and mid caps down 0.5%.

Pressure had been building on Starmer, whose popularity among voters has tumbled over his handling ​of the ​economy, for ⁠months.

Focus is expected to turn to who Burnham picks as finance ​minister to take over from Rachel ​Reeves, ⁠who has fought hard to retain the trust of bondholders in her ability to keep UK ⁠finances ​on track.

Reporting by Amanda ​Cooper and Alun John; Editing by Dhara Ranasinghe

Source: Reuters


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