Will a deal be agreed with Europe – and when? - ING

Analysts at ING Bank explained that between now and March 2019, there are essentially two things that need to happen in terms of Brexit.

Key Quotes: 

"Firstly, and most importantly both sides need to reach a deal on the withdrawal agreement. That covers everything to do with the UK’s exit including things like financial commitments, the transition period and the Irish border."

"On top of this, the goal is to agree on a ‘political declaration’ on what trade talks should be aiming for. Remember, these trade negotiations are unlikely to start in earnest before March."

"Prime Minister May has an incentive to hold off agreeing a deal."

"The last major issue that stands in the way of the withdrawal agreement being settled is the Irish backstop - and both sides remain poles apart on that. The EU is resolute this can only be Northern Ireland-specific, which the British government is concerned will create barriers and frictions within the UK itself. - Admittedly there have been a few subtle signs of progress on this issue over the summer. "