US Dollar weakens, leading USD/CHF to drop towards 0.8250 after earlier gains

    by VT Markets
    /
    May 23, 2025
    USD/CHF has fallen to around 0.8260 as the US Dollar weakens. This drop is due to concerns about the U.S. fiscal deficit, which the Congressional Budget Office predicts will increase by $3.8 billion because of Trump’s proposed legislation. In contrast, the Swiss Franc is gaining strength as investors seek safety amid U.S. debt issues and geopolitical tensions. The US Dollar Index has decreased to 99.60, its lowest point in two weeks. The proposed budget narrowly passed the US House and offers tax breaks, which could further increase the deficit. However, stronger PMI data has boosted the USD, lowering expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts.

    Fed Governor’s Economic Stability Statement

    Fed Governor Christopher Waller believes there could be economic stability if tariffs stay around 10%. He also mentioned possible rate cuts later. The CME FedWatch indicates a 71% chance of interest rates remaining stable. The Swiss Franc is strengthening as a safe-haven currency amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties. The Swiss National Bank’s decisions could influence the CHF, with market expectations for a rate cut in June. The value of the CHF is closely tied to Swiss economic data and Eurozone policies. Known for its stability, the Swiss Franc often attracts investors during market stress. The USD/CHF trend is downward, near 0.8260, as the Greenback faces pressure from new concerns regarding U.S. fiscal health. The Congressional Budget Office’s projections show a $3.8 billion increase in the federal deficit due to proposed tax breaks, which are linked to fiscal expansion. Although aimed at stimulating growth, these tax breaks raise concerns about long-term sustainability and inflation. At the same time, the Dollar Index has slipped to 99.60, indicating a downturn. Risk appetite has decreased due to domestic fiscal issues and ongoing geopolitical challenges. In such situations, currencies known for stability, like the Swiss Franc, usually see more inflows. The Franc has responded quickly, benefiting from classic risk-averse behavior. It’s important to note that the CHF often mirrors perceived economic weakness in other countries. Traders should consider this consistent behavior since confidence in the Franc grows when broader markets decline. This is bolstered by the reliability of Swiss monetary policy and its focus on inflation. Interestingly, mixed signals from U.S. economic indicators complicate the bearish outlook for the dollar. While budget concerns persist, unexpectedly strong PMI data hints at solid performance in manufacturing and services, reducing the need for immediate Federal Reserve action. This may soften recent declines in the dollar. Waller’s recent comments align with a cautious perspective. He is open to rate cuts but only in controlled scenarios. Specifically mentioning tariff levels indicates a willingness to handle near-term inflation as long as trade relationships remain stable. Here, monetary policy seems more reactive than proactive.

    Market Expectations And Economic Print Monitoring

    The CME’s FedWatch tool reflects this sentiment, showing that about 70% of market participants expect rates to stay unchanged at the next meeting. Expectations have shifted slightly, providing the dollar with some room to stabilize, though not necessarily recover significantly. Focus now shifts to Switzerland. There’s ongoing speculation about a potential policy change by the Swiss central bank, with a modest rate cut expected in June. If this happens, it might slow the recent rise of the Franc. However, any adjustments are likely to be small, keeping the CHF steady rather than volatile. We continue to monitor economic data from both Switzerland and the Euro Area, as these factors will heavily influence short-term valuations. The Swiss Franc often reacts more to international instability than domestic events, highlighting why geopolitical factors are critical indicators for assessing the cross’s short-term direction. Overall, many are adjusting their positions. While volatility remains high, the focus is leaning towards the downside for USD, where concerns about U.S. spending and debt seem to exceed growth trends. Although positioning against the dollar has increased, it has not yet reached extreme levels, indicating that markets could continue current trends before reversing. Those trading derivatives should adapt their strategies accordingly, favoring tactics that align with sustained CHF strength unless the SNB suggests otherwise—especially in markets rewarding patience and precision. Create your live VT Markets account and start trading now.

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