EM currencies gain as growth returns, but boom unlikely

Emerging market currencies tend to move with the economic cycle. Consequently, after losing ground in 2020, they have recently shown signs of recovery. While growth should support EM currencies during 2021, other currently positive factors may wane. We therefore think an EM currency boom is unlikely unless world growth and inflation surprise markedly to the upside.
What you will learn from this report:
- An index of EM currencies fell 5% in 2020, but a deeper fall might have been expected given the slump in world GDP.
- The pro-cyclical nature of EM currencies appears to be behind notable gains by some in recent months.
- Our EM FX barometer is currently positive for EM currencies.
Tags:
Related Services
Post
APAC Key Themes 2026: Paybacks, policy offsets and trade
We believe APAC will remain the strongest global performer in 2026. However, the growth trajectory will likely be more uneven than in past cycles.
Find Out More
Post
Japan’s fiscal policy will remain loose, which increases risks to debt sustainabilit
We've changed our fiscal outlook for Japan in our December forecast round. We now expect the new government to set a primary deficit close to that of 2024, at 2%-3% of GDP for 2025-2027, instead of restoring a balanced budget by taking advantage of strong tax revenue. We assume higher bond yields will force the government to take measures to reduce the deficit from 2028.
Find Out More