Going into the RBA meeting it was noted that investors should monitor any changes in rate hike expectations between the RBA and RBNZ for any opportunities in the AUDNZD. So, with the RBA hiking by a surprise 25 bps this added a further tailwind to the AUDNZD pair. It should also support dip buyers with the RBNZ hinting that they may have reached terminal rate.
Higher inflation prompted RBA action
This was the key reason the RBA hiked rates by 25 bps. The RBA board noted that recent data had shown upside risks to the outlook for inflation. The RBA also noted that the labour market remains tight.
More hikes to come?
The Australian Treasurer stated that the RBA rate hike reflects more persistent inflation pressures and the Board also noted that expectations of higher inflation are contributing to larger increases in both prices and wages. Short Term Interest Rate markets now see a higher terminal rate of 4.27% which is up from 4.04% from a week ago. There is, at the time of writing, a 55% chance of a 25bps hike expected for the July meeting.
