NZD Market Overview
Updated 18 Jul 2026 • 23:46 GMT
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) continues to show strength, primarily driven by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's (RBNZ) recent 25 basis point rate hike, which has aligned with hawkish market expectations. The NZD's outlook remains positive, aided by strong economic indicators, such as the manufacturing PMI reaching its highest level since July 2021. However, potential vulnerabilities persist, particularly due to weak domestic demand in China, which could impact NZD through reduced import demand.
Key watchpoints:
- Upcoming RBNZ guidance could further influence market expectations for interest rate movements.
- Monitoring manufacturing and economic data releases for signs of continued support for NZD strength.
- External factors, such as China's economic conditions, remain crucial for NZD's performance, especially in trade dynamics.
Hungarian Forint Weekly Market Update
Updated 18 Jul 2026 • 23:49 GMT
The Hungarian Forint (HUF) remains under pressure amidst a broader risk-off environment in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, as highlighted by ING analysts. Despite recent selling pressure due to crowded long positions and profit-taking, the underlying attractiveness of Hungarian rates and currency continues to draw interest. With Hungarian inflation dropping to 1.7%, further rate cuts are anticipated in the coming months. Analysts expect EUR/HUF to maintain a trading range of 350–360, supported by seasonal carry demand.
Key watchpoints:
- Continued impact of regional risk-off sentiment on HUF and CEE FX.
- Effects of expected rate cuts on Hungarian monetary policy and currency stability.
- EUR/HUF's performance within the predicted trading range in response to economic data releases.