RBA keeps policy steady, higher AUD weighing on outlook for output & employment

Dhwani Mehta FXStreet

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) at its monetary policy meeting today, left the official cash rate (OCR) unchanged at a record low of 1.50%, as widely expected.

The RBA statement read: “The low level of interest rates is continuing to support the Australian economy. Taking account of the available information, the Board judged that holding the stance of monetary policy unchanged at this meeting would be consistent with sustainable growth in the economy and achieving the inflation target over time.”

With regard to the current level of rates and the value of the Aussie, the RBA added: “The Australian dollar has appreciated over recent months, partly reflecting a lower US dollar. The higher exchange rate is expected to contribute to the subdued price pressures in the economy. It is also weighing on the outlook for output and employment. An appreciating exchange rate would be expected to result in a slower pick-up in economic activity and inflation than currently forecast."

Author

Dhwani Mehta

FXStreet

Residing in Mumbai (India), Dhwani is a Senior Analyst and Manager of the Asian session at FXStreet. She has over 10 years of experience in analyzing and covering the global financial markets, with specialization in Forex and commodities markets.

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