USD/MXN edges higher to near 16.90, with market focus on Mexico’s Private Spending data

• USD/MXN gains ground on speculation of the Fed’s extending policy tightening.
• Banxico is expected to reduce its interest rate to 11.0% from 11.25%.
• US Dollar strengthens on improved US Treasury yields.

USD/MXN continues its upward trend, reaching near 16.90 and marking gains for the fourth consecutive session on Tuesday. Traders are awaiting Private Spending data on Tuesday and Retail Sales figures on Wednesday from Mexico. Furthermore, attention is on the Bank of Mexico’s (Banxico) interest rate decision on Friday, with expectations of a 25 basis points reduction.

In Banxico’s quarterly report, officials acknowledged progress in inflation control and stressed the importance of avoiding premature interest rate cuts. However, recent speeches and media appearances indicate a division within Banxico’s Governing Council. Governor Victoria Rodriguez Ceja, Omar Mejia Castelazo, and Galia Borja Gomez lean dovish, while Jonathan Heath and Irene Espinosa Cantellano take a more hawkish stance.

An economic slowdown in Mexico stands out as the primary event that could prompt Banxico’s first rate cut, as the central bank has revised its economic projections downward. Despite Mexico’s Industrial Production surging over twelve months, surpassing December’s stagnant performance, this could bolster the hawkish stance of Banxico.

Meanwhile, the US Dollar (USD) strengthens to near 103.90, driven by improved US Treasury yields at 4.73% and 4.32% for 2-year and 10-year US bond coupons, respectively. Investors eagerly await the interest rate decision from the US Federal Reserve (Fed), expected to be announced on Wednesday. The Federal Reserve (Fed) is expected to maintain its elevated interest rates in response to recent inflationary pressures.