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Thailand: Baht pulled down by worries of China lockdown, stronger dollar

The baht opened at 36.22 to the US dollar on Tuesday, weakening from Monday’s close of 36.18.

The currency is expected to move between 36.15 and 36.35 during the day, predicted Krungthai Bank market strategist Poon Panichpibool.

Poon said the baht is likely to fluctuate and weaken as the dollar is strengthening and investors are concerned that the Chinese government may enforce more lockdown measures.He expects the baht’s support level in the short term to be 35.90 to 36, and the resistance level to be at 36.5.

Poon said the dollar might “invert” if the US Federal Reserve does not signal it would go in for a heavy rate increase in July.

He also urged investors to beware of the currency market’s volatility before and after information on US inflation has been revealed.

If the US inflation is higher than expected, the Federal Reserve may signal an interest rate increase this year, which will strengthen the dollar.

The market may also fluctuate as investors are waiting for the latest ZEW Economic Sentiment indicator. If it shows that the European economy is worse than expected, then it may pressure the euro and help the dollar strengthen.

 

Published : July 12, 2022

By : THE NATION