A Weak Pound is Weighing on Hong Kong Stocks - Morningstar
Extending the depreciation since the 2016 EU referendum result, the British pound has softened against the greenback to levels not seen in 37 years. One pound was equivalent to USD 1.39 in September 2021 and is now worth USD 1.15. Recession and a weak sterling both have implications for businesses. Within the UK equity market, a depreciating pound sterling would be a boon for UK companies generating substantial earnings from overseas, thanks to a positive currency translation benefit. Only around 27% of revenues in the FTSE All-Share Index are sourced domestically from the UK, with well over 70% collected from global markets. With the broad market down for the year to date, quality discounted names that have strong cash-generation abilities abound. On the flip side, domestic companies that heavily rely on external supplies will see input costs rise to pressure profit margins. Similarly, the currency moves may play out unfavorably in foreign businesses with a strong UK presence. ...