Consumer Confidence Drops to Lowest Point Since October 2023
Market Analysis by Quasar Elizundia, Expert Research Strategist at Pepperstone
In a global environment still marked by uncertainty, the Mexican peso is showing relative stability ahead of the imminent monetary policy decision by the Banco de México (Banxico). The expectation of a 50 basis points cut in the interest rate this month reflects a strategic calculation: to seize an opportunity to continue stimulating the economy while the relative exchange rate stability permits it.
I personally believe that Banxico’s decision is based on two key factors. First, general inflation fell below 4% in the first half of January, levels not seen since 2021, bringing the central bank closer to its primary inflation target. Second, a one-month pause in trade tensions between Mexico and the United States has provided the peso with some relief, avoiding additional pressures that would complicate a more extensive monetary easing. I believe this is the right time for Banxico to further support growth with a more significant normalization of rates.
It is important to emphasize that the rate cut contrasts with the stance of the Federal Reserve (Fed), which maintains a restrictive tone after noting in January a strong labor market and persistent inflationary pressures. This divergence, however, could eventually put pressure on the peso against the dollar. Nonetheless, Banxico seems confident that the maneuvering room gained from the recent stability of the MXN compensates for the risks.
While Banxico acts, consumer confidence in Mexico fell to 46.7 points in January, its lowest level since October 2023. The deterioration in future economic outlooks (50.3 vs. 51.2 in December) and the decreased willingness to purchase durable goods (29.9 points) reveal growing pessimism. Although the perception of the current situation in households improved slightly (51.5), this data reinforces the urgency for policies that stimulate domestic consumption, aligning with the need to provide a less restrictive monetary policy environment that can drive greater economic dynamism.
Beyond national borders, the postponed—though not non-existent—trade tensions and the potential escalation of protectionism in the U.S. add layers of complexity. A dollar strengthened by aggressive U.S. policies could unbalance the peso, limiting Banxico’s room to maneuver.
Banxico faces the challenge of stimulating an economy showing signs of fragility without triggering currency pressures in a volatile global scenario. The window of opportunity exists, but it is narrow: any shift by the Fed or changes in trade relations could considerably limit it. Banxico’s next move is not just about interest rates, but about navigating increasingly turbulent international waters.”
