Brexit

Published on 02/10/2017

Brexit: insurance wise? After falling by as much as 25%, the pound rose by almost 3% against other currencies, including the euro and dollar, last week. This trend reversal was caused by a possible interest rate hike by the Bank of England, which traders are focusing on. Whether this increase will actually be implemented remains to be seen. Political uncertainty also remains high. So great, in fact, that it is advisable for companies to insure their exports to the UK.

Brexit detrimental to UK itself

When the British chose Brexit, there was much uncertainty about what was going to happen. Speculation about the adverse consequences for other European countries - especially those that export heavily to the UK, including the Netherlands - followed in rapid succession. Now that Brexit negotiations are in full swing, it appears that the consequences are particularly detrimental for the UK itself.

UK growth declines sharply

Apart from a sharp devaluation of the pound, many multinationals are also no longer investing in the UK. Products from outside the UK have become more expensive for Britons. This will knock out demand for certain products. Necessary products not available in the UK will start to be bought at a higher price. Credit insurers expect growth to slow sharply in the UK, at least more sharply than in the rest of Europe. This year, growth in the UK already lags far behind the rest of Europe. In this context, see also the chart prepared by Euler Hermes (Johan Geeroms) below, with several impact scenarios for the UK.

Limit your export risks

Currency risks can be hedged. You can contact us for this. However, these risks do not stop there. With UK product prices rising and growth slowing sharply, the likelihood of bankruptcies is increasing. Companies are therefore wise to 1) insure exports to the UK and 2) only do business with companies insured by credit insurers. We are happy to help you with this.

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