The short-term outlook for NZD/CHF is leaning bearish, and here’s why. A mix of macroeconomic trends and policy decisions from both New Zealand and Switzerland suggests the NZD will continue to weaken against the CHF. Let’s dive into the details:
Why I’m Bearish on NZD/CHF: 1. Central Bank Divergence: • The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has been aggressively cutting rates, lowering the cash rate by 125 basis points this cycle to 4.25%. With New Zealand in a recession, there’s an expectation for another 100 basis points in cuts by mid-2025. • Meanwhile, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) has also eased slightly, with a 50 basis point cut, but their more stable economy suggests they’re less likely to push rates much lower. 2. Economic Growth Stories: • New Zealand: Things aren’t looking great—Q3 brought an official recession, and all signs point to slower growth ahead. This will likely keep the RBNZ in an easing cycle. • Switzerland: On the other hand, Switzerland’s GDP is projected to grow by 1.3% in 2024 and 1.5% in 2025, with strength coming from improved domestic demand, rising employment, and stable financing conditions. 3. Inflation Gap: • New Zealand: Inflation concerns have taken a back seat to growth, giving the RBNZ room to cut rates further and keep the Kiwi dollar under pressure. • Switzerland: Inflation is incredibly low at 0.7%, giving the SNB flexibility, but their stronger economic position means they don’t need to take drastic action. 4. Global Trade Uncertainty: • Global trade tensions, including potential U.S. tariffs, add another layer of uncertainty. New Zealand’s export-driven economy is more vulnerable, whereas Switzerland, with its diversified economy, can weather these challenges better. 5. Market Sentiment and Technicals: • The NZD/CHF exchange rate has been trending lower, reflecting growing bearish sentiment. The Kiwi dollar continues to lose ground as the CHF benefits from its status as a safe haven.
Short-Term Bias: Bearish When you put it all together—New Zealand’s recession, the RBNZ’s aggressive rate cuts, and Switzerland’s relatively stable outlook—the case for a bearish NZD/CHF bias becomes clear. Unless we see a major shift in global trade dynamics or unexpected announcements from either central bank, the downtrend is likely to persist.
What I’m Watching: • How quickly the RBNZ moves forward with additional cuts. • Any surprises from the SNB that could alter Switzerland’s stable narrative. • Global trade developments, like potential U.S. tariffs, which could have ripple effects on both economies.
Conclusion: With New Zealand’s economic challenges and Switzerland’s solid footing, the bearish bias for NZD/CHF seems well-supported for now. Keep an eye on central bank decisions and trade headlines—they could hold the key to any shifts in this narrative.
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