Home Daily Commentaries New Zealand Dollar tumbles as rate cut looms

New Zealand Dollar tumbles as rate cut looms

Daily Currency Update

The New Zealand dollar underperformed through Wednesday, crashing below US$0.61 following the RBNZ’s post-rate decision statement. The prospect of a rate hike was not discussed this time as weak activity and the pressures of existing monetary policy restraints were seen as sufficient for fighting persistent inflation. While we were expecting policymakers to leave rates on hold there was conjecture surrounding the tone the RBNZ would adopt. The dovish pivot was what markets have been seeking and allowed investors to firm bets on pricing in a rate cut before year-end. Markets are now preparing for a rate cut in November. The NZD tumbled to intraday lows at US$0.6070 as our attention now turns to US CPI data this evening. A softening in inflation pressures will help build momentum around the emerging disinflation narrative and could elevate calls for the Fed to cut rates sooner.

Key Movers

Price action across majors was well defined through Wednesday with the euro, yen and AUD all tracking within a narrow range. While the NZD underperformed following the RBNZ policy update, the GBP outperformed following commentary from the Bank of England's chief economist, Huw Pill. Pill warned of continued inflationary pressures and noted a rate cut as soon as August was unlikely. While Pill acknowledged a cut was needed before year-end there remained upside risks to inflation forcing policymakers to consider the timing and trajectory of rate adjustments. Pricing for an August adjustment was pared back and the GBP lurched back above 1.28 falling short of a break above 1.2850.

Our attention turns now to US inflation data and jobless claims. We expect core CPI to show a 0.2% increase month on month, adding to the improvement in annual inflation pressures and affording the Fed confidence that inflation remains on track. Jobless claims will also be in focus as labour market performance remains key to guiding policy.

Expected Ranges

  • NZD/USD: 0.6000 - 0.6130 ▼
  • NZD/EUR: 0.5580 - 0.5680 ▼
  • GBP/NZD: 2.0950 - 2.1250 ▲
  • NZD/AUD: 0.8980 - 0.9100 ▼
  • NZD/CAD: 0.8220 - 0.8350 ▼

Written by

Matt Richardson

OFXpert

As a Senior Corporate Client Manager, Matt provides expertise in currency risk management to his clients, drawing from his 14 years of experience in foreign exchange. Matt has clients who he has been working with for over a decade, a testament to his knowledge and dedication in the field. Matt is also a regular contributor on Ausbiz, offering clear and precise updates on currency market trends, showcasing his ability to interpret complex financial data into actionable insights.