Asian currencies likely to stay under pressure as new Fed regime keeps rates steady

But US-Iran deal over the Middle East likely to keep US dollar appreciation in check

Tan Nai Lun
Published Thu, Jun 18, 2026 · 03:04 PM
    • The Fed has kept interest rates unchanged at 3.5% to 3.75% in the first Federal Open Market Committee meeting led by new chair Kevin Warsh.
    • The Fed has kept interest rates unchanged at 3.5% to 3.75% in the first Federal Open Market Committee meeting led by new chair Kevin Warsh. PHOTO: REUTERS

    [SINGAPORE] Asian currencies will likely remain under pressure from an elevated greenback, as the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady on Wednesday (Jun 17).

    The Fed kept rates unchanged at 3.5 to 3.75 per cent in the first Federal Open Market Committee meeting led by new Fed chair Kevin Warsh – who was known to be in favour of lower interest rates – as inflation remained above target.

    The hawkish interpretation of the Fed decision will likely result in a stronger US dollar and higher rates in Asia, said Navin Saigal, head of global fixed income for Asia-Pacific at BlackRock.