We are positive on the New Zealand dollar versus the G10 average after it sank to its 52-week low and to 16% below our estimate of long-run fair value following a 2.3% decline versus the G10 in September, the worst performance in the group. Rising energy prices, softer global investor sentiment, and a dovish rate hike from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) on September 1 against widespread rate increases outside New Zealand all combined to weigh on the currency.
We accept that our positive signal may be somewhat premature. Current economic activity is uneven, yields remain near the G10 average, and we see clear risks of further volatility in investor sentiment. However, the economy is gradually recovering from its 2024-2025 recession, and both the manufacturing PMI and consumer confidence have shown further signs of improvement recently. Moreover, the recovery appears to be spreading across sectors and regions, including stronger net immigration inflows.
On the policy front, the RBNZ attempted to walk back some of its more cautious (dovish) statements later in September as the spike in energy prices and the weakening New Zealand dollar reignited inflation concerns. The trajectory is moving in the right direction, and a considerable degree of pessimism is already reflected in the currency. Therefore, while it may be somewhat early, we see solid medium-term recovery potential for the New Zealand dollar that warrants gradually building a long position on any further weakness.
In the long term, our outlook is mixed. Our estimates of long-run fair value suggest that the New Zealand dollar is cheap relative to the US dollar and Swiss franc and has ample room to appreciate, but it is expensive relative to the Japanese yen and the Scandinavian currencies.
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The views expressed in this material are the views of the Aaron Hurd through the period ended October 07, 2026 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
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