In Asian trading Friday, AUD/USD jumped 0.49% to 1.0320. On Thursday, Stevens hinted that the central bank is comfortable with Australian interest rates as they currently stand and that RBA is not likely to engage in looser monetary policy. Also on Thursday, a research report issued by U.S. fund manager indicated the International Monetary Fund could give the Aussie reserve currency status this year. Earlier today, Australian Treasure Wayne Swan said he believes the strong dollar will not deter foreign investors because of his country’s strong underlying economic fundamentals. Swan told a business economists group in Sydney that foreign investors are attracted to Australia because of solid government, sound public finances and a tolerable debt level. While Australia’s AAA credit rating is a source of allure for many investors, it is still widely believed that the Aussie is overvalued relative to the greenback. The Aussie has been at or above parity with the U.S. dollar since late 2008. During that time, the Aussie is the best-performing developed market currency against the USD. Elsewhere, EUR/AUD fell 0.43% to 1.2802 while GBP/AUD slipped 0.48% to 1.4802. AUD/JPY jumped 0.51% to 96.32 while AUD/NZD rose 0.13% to 1.2325.
EasyForexNews Research Team