RBNZ Rate Hike Sparks NZ Bond Yield Surge, NZD/USD Hits Lowest Point
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) raised interest rates for the second consecutive meeting, bringing the benchmark rate to 2.75%. The decision was made as the country's inflation remains above the 2% target level.
New Zealand's 10-year bond yields jumped to 4.86%, their highest since March 23rd this year. This is a result of investors expecting higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, which could happen as soon as this month.
The NZD/USD exchange rate continued its downward trend, reaching its lowest level since August 13th, down by over 2.6% from its highest point in August. The pair has broken below key support levels and is likely to remain under pressure.