The Business NG - August 23, 2024

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Naira's Mixed Signals: Dollar Strengthens as Interest Rate Cut Expectations Rise"



The naira displayed mixed signals against the dollar in Nigerian FX markets on Thursday, as the greenback rose from seven-month lows amid bargain hunting and expectations of interest rate cuts. The naira gained roughly N50, settling at N1,543/$1 on Wednesday, up from N1,592/$1 on Tuesday, according to data from the NAFEM market.

However, the domestic currency lost the N1,600/$ support line in the black market, trading at N1,610/$1 late Wednesday, compared to N1,605/$1 on Tuesday. Market indicators confirm that despite improved macroeconomic conditions in the Nigerian FX market, the local currency is struggling to maintain the crucial N1,500 support level and is under significant strain this month.

Fundamentals suggest that the local currency may move towards N1,800/$1 if it cannot sustain its current levels. At this point, even staunch proponents of free market economics will be skeptical that the naira will reach its March highs this quarter