The koruna firmed in reaction to the release of above-forecast flash October CPI data out of Czechia this morning, even as sell-side desks cautioned against excessive focus on the headline figure, which masked the underlying structure. When this is being typed, EUR/CZK changes hands -0.040 at 24.347, with the koruna outperforming all its EMEA peers save for the South African rand. The EM space is further benefitting from a correction of latest risk-off moves.
- The upside surprise in Czechia's CPI data was driven by volatile food prices, which are notoriously hard to predict, and which drove the downside surprise in September. Otherwise, the closely watched services inflation edged lower to +4.6% Y/Y from +4.7% prior, staying above the levels considered as 'normal' by the CNB. In a recent interview, Bank Board's Seidler said that it should be between +3.5-4.0% Y/Y for the CNB to not to be concerned.
- From a technical perspective, a return below the 50-DMA (24.338) and a further drop toward recent cycle lows located just shy of the 24.2 mark would reignite bearish momentum, while bulls look for a rally toward the 100-DMA (24.472).
- PLN/CZK is trying to return below its 50-DMA (5.7213) and is now operating at 5.7176, with both CEE central banks due to announce interest-rate decisions over the next couple of days.
- The expectation-beating inflation print pushed CZGB yields higher across the curve, which runs steeper at typing. Local FRAs have also posted decent moves higher as participants speculate CNB policy beyond the near term.
- The PX Index has inched higher this morning.