Mexican peso strengthens against US dollar as markets await House vote on legislation

    by VT Markets
    /
    May 20, 2025
    The Mexican Peso is holding steady against the US Dollar after reaching a yearly high. Markets are being cautious as the House prepares to vote on President Trump’s tax bill, which could affect US fiscal policy and debt.

    Factors Influencing USD/MXN

    The USD/MXN exchange rate is affected by how investors feel about the Dollar, which depends on various US economic factors. The proposed bill to extend tax cuts and introduce new relief measures might increase the federal deficit, putting pressure on the US Dollar. Federal Reserve officials will speak soon, offering insights into future policies amid economic uncertainty. Recent credit downgrades indicate rising credit risks for the US. Meanwhile, Mexico will soon release data on retail sales, inflation, and GDP, while the US will share PMIs and home sales figures. The USD/MXN has dropped to its lowest level since October, falling below the previous support level of 19.30. The relative strength index (RSI) is at 36, indicating increased bearish momentum, with 19.20 as a key support level. If it falls below 19.20, the value could drop further to around 19.11. However, if the Dollar recovers, it may test near 19.47 again. The terms “risk-on” and “risk-off” describe how investors feel about risk. In “risk-on” times, optimism rises, benefiting riskier assets. In “risk-off” times, safe-haven assets like government bonds, gold, and certain currencies do well.

    Potential Market Reversals

    With the recent movements in the USD/MXN pair and the context of US fiscal changes, the market is sensitive to shifts, especially from policymakers. Concerns over the increasing federal deficit due to new tax measures are putting downward pressure on the Dollar. Consequently, the Dollar’s weakness is becoming a more persistent theme, directly supporting the Peso in the short term. Derivatives traders should pay attention not just to key levels like 19.30 but also the speed and strength of these movements. The drop below 19.30 occurred gradually, which adds weight to the momentum signals. With an RSI around 36, significantly below neutral, it suggests that selling continues without signs of exhaustion. If 19.20 doesn’t hold, the next demand area appears weak until slightly above 19.10, providing a narrow buffer. Any short positions should be managed carefully, as this pair can reverse quickly when market sentiment changes. Powell and his colleagues are expected to provide important guidance on future policies soon, which could lead to increased volatility. Any change in tone—especially regarding balance sheet reduction or interest rates—could quickly shift how investors feel about the Dollar. The Dollar is caught between domestic fiscal growth and high real rates, making any rally attempts vulnerable unless strong US macro data supports them. Meanwhile, attention is shifting to Mexico’s economic data. Retail sales and GDP figures are particularly important this week, given low speculative interest recently. If inflation data comes in below target, it may support Banxico’s current focus on stability. However, surprises in either direction could impact future rate expectations and should be considered in delta hedging strategies. Technically, we shouldn’t overlook reactions around 19.47. The last rejection in that area was due to crowded positioning rather than strong fundamentals. If the Dollar regains short-term buying momentum—possibly from strong US PMI or housing data—the USD/MXN could quickly bounce back. Therefore, any protections against USD strength should account for the potential for rapid rallies. With risk sentiment currently finely balanced and the demand for safe-haven assets suggesting a slight move towards risk-off, the Peso remains supported. However, if duration markets begin to factor in more fiscal stress, we might see a reversal in equity volatility. We are keeping an eye on bond spreads and CDS levels as early indicators. Now is not the time for passive delta exposure; it’s important to watch gamma closely. The market skew remains narrow but can change quickly. The ongoing narrative will continue to depend on policy communication from both Washington and Banxico. Create your live VT Markets account and start trading now.

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