The Australian Dollar (AUD) has been under pressure, experiencing declines against the US Dollar (USD) for the third consecutive trading session. This trend is largely fueled by looming concerns regarding potential tariffs on Chinese imports as US President-Elect Donald Trump takes office. Given Australia’s significant export ties to China, any tariff increases are likely to have adverse effects on the AUD.
In a somewhat contrasting development, Australia’s Westpac Consumer Confidence index recorded a notable rise of 5.3% in November, climbing to 94.6 points. This marks the second month of improvement and reflects the highest consumer confidence level seen in over two years. Despite this positive shift, the index continues to sit below the neutral level of 100, indicating that a more optimistic outlook among consumers remains overshadowed by lingering caution.
As market participants look ahead, the upcoming release of the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is generating keen interest. Analysts expect a year-over-year increase of 2.6% for October, with the core CPI projected to rise by 3.3%. This data could provide valuable insights regarding future US monetary policy, especially if inflation pressures persist.
In addition to the US inflation data, the Australian Dollar faces downward pressure from disappointing consumer price data released in China. The country reported a year-over-year CPI increase of just 0.3% for October, below expectations and the lowest rate since June. This lackluster performance has raised concerns about demand from Australia’s largest trading partner, complicating the economic landscape for Australian exporters.
While there are concerns, the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent statements indicate a commitment to a more hawkish monetary policy. With persistent inflation risks and a strong labor market, RBA officials highlight the importance of maintaining a tighter monetary stance. As the AUD navigates these complex dynamics, its performance will continue to depend on both domestic economic indicators and international developments, particularly regarding US policies and Chinese economic trends.
