The Mexican Peso showed strength against the US Dollar, gaining 0.88% as the USD/MXN pair traded at 18.59. This followed weaker-than-expected US labor data that increased expectations for a Fed rate cut in September. Banxico’s Deputy Governor, Omar Mejia Castelazo, suggested gradual rate cuts amid Mexico’s slowing economic growth.
On Wednesday, Mexican economic data was empty, with traders ignoring previous data showing economic deceleration. Q2 GDP rose 0.2% QoQ, below estimates, supporting Castelazo’s comments on gradual rate cuts. In the US, private hiring data was lower than expected, prompting speculation of a Fed rate cut in September.
Market participants are eagerly awaiting the Fed’s decision, which is expected to keep rates unchanged but may signal a possible easing cycle in September. The CME FedWatch Tool shows a 100% chance of a 25-basis-point rate cut in September, with futures contracts suggesting a total easing of at least 55 basis points.
Mexican economic data, including Q2 GDP growth of 2.2% YoY, showed signs of stability. However, other indicators such as a negative balance of trade in June and weak ADP Employment Change figures in the US, indicated areas of concern. The Employment Cost Index also fell below forecasts.
Technical analysis of the USD/MXN pair showed a bearish engulfing pattern indicating a potential interest rate cut by the Fed. The RSI was falling sharply, suggesting momentum for sellers. Support levels were identified at 18.50 and 18.00, with resistance at 18.60 and potential uptrend toward 19.00 and 19.50.
The Mexican Peso is heavily influenced by factors such as the performance of the Mexican economy, central bank policies, foreign investment, and oil prices. Banxico’s main goal is to maintain low and stable inflation through appropriate interest rate levels. Macroeconomic data releases play a crucial role in assessing the economy’s health and its impact on the Peso. MXN tends to perform well during risk-on periods and weaker during market turbulence or economic uncertainty.
Overall, the Mexican Peso’s recent gains against the US Dollar were driven by a combination of factors, including weaker US data, expectations of a Fed rate cut, and Mexico’s economic stability. The upcoming Fed decision will be crucial in determining the Peso’s future direction, with market analysts closely monitoring economic indicators for potential impact on MXN valuation.