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NZD/USD: Trading the New Zealand Official Cash Rate

The RBNZ sets interest rates on a monthly basis. It is one of the most important New Zealand indicators and an unexpected reading can have a strong effect on the movement of NZD/USD. A reading  which  is  higher than the market  forecast is bullish for the New Zealand dollar.

Here are the details and 5 possible outcomes for  NZD/USD.

Published on Wednesday at 20:00 GMT.

Indicator Background

Interest rate levels are an important component of monetary policy. The RBNZ could decide to lower rates in order to boost inflation levels or kick-start economic growth.

The RBNZ has lowered rates by a quarter-point twice this year, as rates are currently at an even 2.00%. The markets are predicting another quarter-point cut to 1.75% on Wednesday. Such a move could push the New Zealand dollar to lower levels.

Sentiment and Levels

While the kiwi on a strong roll and trading at 8-week highs, the upward trend could continue. At the same time, a Clinton victory in the US election could boost the greenback.  So, the overall sentiment is  bearish on NZD/USD towards this release.

Technical levels from top to bottom: 0.7400, 0.7330, 0.7265, 0.7230 and  0.7160

5 Scenarios

  1. Within expectations: 1.75%: In this scenario, NZD/USD could show some slight fluctuation, but it is likely to remain within range,  without breaking any levels.
  2. Above expectations: 2.00%: If the RBNZ maintains rates, NZD/USD could move upwards.
  3. Well above expectations: 2.25%: This scenario is extremely unlikely.
  4. Below expectations: 1.50%: A cut of more than 0.25 points is an unlikely scenario.
  5. Well below expectations: 1.25%.This scenario is extremely unlikely.

For more on the kiwi, see the  NZD/USD forecast.

Kenny Fisher

Kenny Fisher

Kenny Fisher - Senior Writer A native of Toronto, Canada, Kenneth worked for seven years in the marketing and trading departments at Bendix, a foreign exchange company in Toronto. Kenneth is also a lawyer, and has extensive experience as an editor and writer.