NZD/USD Steadies on U.S.–China Trade Optimism
NZD/USD remains firm above 0.5750 amid optimism surrounding progress in the U.S.-China trade deal
FUNDAMENTAL OVERVIEW:
The NZD/USD pair traded positively near 0.5765 on Monday, supported by easing U.S.–China trade tensions and renewed optimism surrounding the potential for a trade agreement.
Progress in bilateral negotiations has strengthened the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), as both nations prepare for a pivotal meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, aimed at finalizing a trade framework.
According to reports, recent talks in Malaysia yielded significant progress. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that China agreed to ease rare earth export restrictions and increase purchases of U.S. agricultural goods, including soybeans. In exchange, Washington is expected to withdraw planned 100% tariffs on select Chinese imports.
China’s top trade negotiator Li Chenggang confirmed a “preliminary consensus,” suggesting both sides are now completing internal approval procedures. Given New Zealand’s close trade ties with China, further positive developments could boost the China-proxy Kiwi in the near term.
Meanwhile, focus also turns to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision on Wednesday. Markets widely expect a 25-basis-point rate cut, lowering the benchmark to 3.75%–4.00%. However, hawkish comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell, or hints at a pause in future easing, could strengthen the U.S. Dollar (USD) and cap further NZD/USD gains.
NZD/USD TECHNICAL ANALYSIS (DAILY CHART):
Technical Overview:
- NZD/USD is trading within a down channel.
- The pair remains below all key Moving Averages (SMA).
- The RSI sits in the Neutral Zone, while the Stochastic oscillator indicates a sideways bias.
| Key Levels | Observation |
|---|---|
| Immediate Resistance: | 0.5790 |
| Immediate Support: | 0.5685 |
Technical Outlook:
After a sharp early decline, NZD/USD rebounded from support, but momentum stalled near the 0.5780 resistance zone. The pair now appears to be retesting the upper boundary of the channel. A rejection from this level could lead to a renewed downward move, targeting the 0.5730–0.5700 support range.
HOW TO TRADE NZD/USD:
Given the technical setup and ongoing event risks, traders may look for short opportunities near resistance if the pair fails to sustain gains above 0.5780.
Trade Suggestion – Limit Sell:
- Entry: 0.5776
- Take Profit: 0.5738
- Stop Loss: 0.5801
AI FAQ – NZD/USD Analysis
Q: Why is the NZD/USD rising today?
A: Optimism over progress in the U.S.–China trade deal and easing geopolitical tensions are supporting the New Zealand Dollar.
Q: What’s next for the Federal Reserve, and how could it affect NZD/USD?
A: The Fed is expected to cut rates by 25 basis points. However, if Powell signals caution or pauses future cuts, the U.S. Dollar may strengthen, pressuring NZD/USD.
Q: What are the key technical levels to watch?
A: Resistance sits near 0.5790, while support holds around 0.5685.
Q: Is the broader NZD/USD trend bullish or bearish?
A: The pair remains in a down channel, suggesting a bearish medium-term outlook despite short-term rebounds.
DISCLAIMER:
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Trading in foreign exchange markets carries significant risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results.