Sweden: Tragic Death Leading to Euro Surprise?

Two polls released Sept. 12 send conflicting signals on the impact of Foreign Minister Anna Lindh's fatal stabbing on Sweden's euro referendum Sept. 14. Currency markets have anticipated the referendum's defeat, and — though defeat is still more likely than victory — one poll suggests a chance for euro supporters to squeak out a victory. Adoption would give both the euro and the Swedish krona a substantial boost beginning Sept. 15. If the euro vote fails, however, markets should take the defeat in stride, with a slight drop in both currencies.