The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) declines against the US Dollar (USD) following hotter-than-expected US inflation data. Higher-for-longer US interest rates strengthen the USD as they attract foreign capital inflows.
Key Factors:
- Stubborn US Inflation: February’s CPI figures exceeded forecasts, suggesting the Fed may need to maintain aggressive rate hikes.
- Fed Rate Outlook: Reduced expectations for near-term US rate cuts weigh on the NZD.
Technical Outlook:
- Bearish Shift: NZD/USD retreats from range highs, forming a bearish Shooting Star pattern.
- MACD Crossover: The MACD indicator signals a potential continuation of the downtrend.
- Downside Target: NZD/USD could retest range lows around 0.6080-90.
- Upside Potential: A breakout above the range high and the Shooting Star high could trigger a rally towards 0.6309.