NZD/USD Gains Amid Risk-On Sentiment But Downside Risks Remain

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The NZD/USD pair saw gains this week, driven by a positive shift in market sentiment following the release of the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for August on Wednesday. The headline inflation figure dropped to a three-year low, easing concerns about persistently high inflation in the U.S. and increasing the likelihood of a 25-basis point rate cut by the Federal Reserve in the near future. This risk-on mood has provided short-term support for the New Zealand Dollar (Kiwi), as investors temporarily shifted their focus away from risk-off assets like the U.S. Dollar.

Despite this positive development, the Kiwi's upside potential may be limited. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is expected to implement additional rate cuts by the end of 2024, as the country's economic outlook remains uncertain. A dovish stance by the RBNZ could weigh on the NZD in the long term, especially as market participants adjust their expectations for future monetary policy decisions.

From a technical analysis perspective, NZD/USD remains vulnerable to further downside pressure. After reversing from a key supply area (as highlighted in our previous analysis), the pair could be poised for a continued decline. Retail traders remain bullish on the NZD, but data shows that institutional players, often referred to as "smart money," have taken a more cautious approach, with lower positioning in the currency. This divergence in sentiment suggests that the current bullish momentum may be short-lived, and a bearish continuation could be on the horizon.

In summary, while the NZD/USD pair has gained ground due to improved risk appetite following the U.S. CPI release, the broader outlook remains bearish. The prospect of further RBNZ rate cuts, combined with the positioning of institutional investors, suggests that the Kiwi may face additional downward pressure in the coming weeks. Traders should watch for key technical levels and remain alert to shifts in market sentiment.

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