Naira Takes Bite Out of Dollar: 5% Surge Rocks Forex Market
The Nigerian Naira roared back against the US Dollar on Tuesday, delivering a surprise 5.05% gain in a single day. Data from FMDQ exchange showcased the local currency flexing its muscle, closing at N878.61 compared to Monday’s N925.45.
This marks a remarkable N46.73 jump and the first time this week the Naira has stood toe-to-toe with the mighty Dollar.
While news of this bullish performance brought cheers to many import businesses and dollar-hungry citizens, the parallel market remained unfazed, holding steady at N1360 per dollar. Meanwhile, forex turnover dipped by 20.28% compared to the previous day, suggesting potential cautious optimism rather than a full-blown stampede toward the Naira.
This sudden power surge raises intriguing questions. Could this be a temporary blip or a sign of a more resilient Naira to come? Investors are undoubtedly keeping a close eye on the upcoming Monetary Policy Committee meeting on February 26th and 27th, where newly reinstated Governor Olayemi Cardoso will take the helm.
His decisions regarding interest rates and forex liquidity could hold the key to unlocking the Naira’s true potential.