By tredu.com • 6/10/2025
Tredu
The NZD/USD currency pair extended its upward momentum early Tuesday, rising to 0.6055 during the Asian session. The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) gained strength on renewed optimism surrounding ongoing US-China trade negotiations, alongside expectations that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) may slow its pace of interest rate cuts.
Day two of high-stakes trade discussions between US and Chinese officials is underway in London, with positive language coming from both sides. US President Donald Trump noted the talks "should go very well," while officials suggested a tentative agreement on easing tech export restrictions in exchange for China relaxing its grip on rare earth exports—critical materials used in technology, defense, and energy sectors.
Given China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner, any improvement in trade conditions has a direct positive effect on the Kiwi Dollar, positioning NZD/USD for further gains.
Read More: How China’s Trade Activity Impacts the NZD
Investor sentiment is also buoyed by shifting expectations around RBNZ monetary policy. While the central bank downgraded its growth outlook, there appears to be hesitation regarding further aggressive Official Cash Rate (OCR) reductions.
According to Westpac senior economist Michael Gordon, there is “a surprising amount of caution around the timing and the size of further OCR cuts.” With rising global uncertainty, markets are beginning to scale back expectations for imminent RBNZ action, offering additional tailwind to the NZD.
Further Reading: RBNZ Policy Shifts and What It Means for NZD/USD
The pair’s move above 0.6050 represents a key psychological barrier, and further upside could be expected if market sentiment around trade talks remains constructive. However, traders should stay cautious ahead of potential developments or surprises from the negotiation table.
NZD/USD is gaining upward momentum as markets respond to optimism over US-China trade talks and reassess the RBNZ rate outlook. The Kiwi could continue to benefit if both narratives evolve positively in the coming sessions.
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