The New Zealand CPI (Consumer Price Index), which is released every quarter, is an inflation index which measures the change in the price of goods and services charged to consumers. A reading which is higher than the market forecast is bullish for the New Zealand dollar. Here are all the details, and 5 possible outcomes for NZD/USD. Published on Wednesday at 22:45 GMT. Indicator Background Analysts consider CPI one of the most important economic indicators, and the release of the New Zealand CPI can affect the direction of NZD/USD. If inflation is considered too high or too low, the central bank may intervene by adjusting interest rates, which will also effect the local currency. The CPI reading in January dropped sharply, posting a reading of -0.3%. Not only was this the first negative reading since Q1 of 2010, the figure also shocked the markets, which had forecast an increase of 0.4%. which was close to the forecast of 1%. The forecast for Q1 stands at 0.6%. Will the index again surprise the markets? Sentiments and levels The slower growth in China, confirmed by recent economic indicators, continues to weigh on the kiwi. In addition, the global downturn, and weaker figures coming out of the US, such as employment numbers, are working in favor of the greenback, as investors look to park their funds in safe haven currencies. Thus, the overall sentiment is bearish on NZD/USD towards this release. Technical levels, from top to bottom: 0.84, 0.8290, 0.8264, 0.8190, 0.8124 and 0.81. 5 Scenarios Within expectations: 0.3% to 0.9%. In this scenario, NZD/USD could show some slight fluctuation, but it is likely to remain within range, without breaking any levels. Above expectations: 1.0% to 1.3%: A reading above the market forecast could push the pair above one resistance line. Well above expectations: Above 1.3%: An unexpectedly sharp rise in inflation could push NZD/USD upwards, with two or more lines of resistance at risk. Below expectations: -0.1% to 0.2%: A lower than expected reading could pull the pair downwards, with one support level at risk. Well below expectations: Below -0.1%: Another reading in negative territory could result in the pair break two or more support levels. For more on NZD/USD, see the New Zealand dollar 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. Kenny's Google Profile View All Post By Kenny Fisher Opinions share Read Next Forex Daily Outlook April 18 2012 Anat Dror 10 years The New Zealand CPI (Consumer Price Index), which is released every quarter, is an inflation index which measures the change in the price of goods and services charged to consumers. A reading which is higher than the market forecast is bullish for the New Zealand dollar. Here are all the details, and 5 possible outcomes for NZD/USD. Published on Wednesday at 22:45 GMT. Indicator Background Analysts consider CPI one of the most important economic indicators, and the release of the New Zealand CPI can affect the direction of NZD/USD. If inflation is considered too high or too low, the central… Regulated Forex Brokers All Brokers Sponsored Brokers Broker Benefits Min Deposit Score Visit Broker 1 $100T&Cs Apply 0% Commission and No stamp DutyRegulated by US,UK & International StockCopy Successfull Traders 9.8 Visit Site FreeBets Reviews$100Your capital is at risk. 2 T&Cs Apply 9.8 Visit Site FreeBets Reviews$100Your capital is at risk. 3 Recommended Broker $100T&Cs Apply No deposit or withdrawal feesTrade major forex pairs such as EUR/USD with leverage up to 30:1 and tight spreads of 0.9 pips Low $100 minimum deposit to open a trading account 9 Visit Site FreeBets ReviewsYour capital is at risk. 4 T&Cs Apply Visit Site FreeBets ReviewsYour capital is at risk. 5 Recommended Broker $0T&Cs Apply Trade gold, silver, and platinum directly against major currenciesUp to 1:500 leverage for forex trading24/5 customer service by phone and email 9 Visit Site FreeBets ReviewsYour capital is at risk.