Key Points
- NZD/USD trading at 0.6108 during Asian hours, influenced by economic events in NZ and the US.
- RBNZ held the interest rate at 5.50%, citing a slow reduction in service inflation.
- Federal Reserve minutes highlighted inflation concerns, indicating a 60% chance of a rate cut by September.
The NZD/USD pair is trading at 0.6108 during the Asian trading hours on Thursday. This currency pair, which measures the value of the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) against the US Dollar (USD), has been influenced by recent economic events in New Zealand and the United States. The fluctuations in the pair reflect the market’s reaction to central bank decisions and economic data releases from these countries.
NZD Slightly Up as RBNZ Keeps Rate Steady at 5.50%
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) recently announced its interest rate decision, keeping it steady at 5.50%. This marks the seventh consecutive meeting where the RBNZ has maintained this rate. In their statement, the RBNZ acknowledged the positive impact of lower inflation on goods and services imported into New Zealand. However, they also highlighted the slow reduction in service inflation and the ongoing delays in anticipated policy interest rate cuts.
The RBNZ expects inflation to reach its target by the end of 2024. This decision and accompanying commentary have contributed to a slight increase in the NZD, as investors interpret the central bank’s stance as a sign of cautious optimism about the domestic economy.
Fed Minutes Show 60% Chance of Rate Cut by September
On the other side of the equation, the US Dollar’s performance has been shaped by the recent release of the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes from April 30 to May 1. The minutes revealed concerns over the need for more significant progress towards the Fed’s 2 per cent inflation objective. Moreover, the market now expects, as gauged by the CME FedWatch tool, a 60% chance of a rate cut by September. These dovish signals from the Fed have applied downward pressure on the USD, providing some support for the NZD/USD pair.
May PMI Release: Potential Impact on NZD/USD Pair
Market participants closely monitor May’s upcoming Advanced US Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) release. A strong PMI reading could bolster the USD, potentially capping the near-term upside for the NZD/USD pair. Conversely, a weaker-than-expected PMI result might further weaken the USD, giving the NZD a chance to climb higher against the Greenback.
The NZD/USD pair’s recent movements reflect monetary policy decisions and economic data releases from New Zealand and the United States. The RBNZ’s steady interest rate and cautious outlook have strengthened the NZD. In contrast, the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes and the possibility of future rate cuts have exerted downward pressure on the USD.
