The financial uncertainty around Donald Trump’s tariffs has had an “unusual” impact on the Australian dollar even as it weighs on global markets, according to the Reserve Bank.

The Aussie plummeted in the aftermath of Trump’s so-called “liberation day” announcement, dropping below 60 US cents for the first time since the pandemic.

While a blow, particularly for Australians overseas who suddenly were getting less value for money on their travels, that was largely in line with historical trends.

The Australian dollar is behaving unusually nearly two months after Donald Trump’s tariff announcements. (Fairfax Media)

“When the outlook for global growth weakens, the Australian dollar typically depreciates as investors expect our economy to be buffeted by the global headwinds,” RBA assistant governor Sarah Hunter said in a speech to the Economic Society of Australia in Brisbane today.

“When global investors are worried, they tend to focus on reducing risk exposure, moving their capital to low-risk assets in countries like the United States, Switzerland and Japan,” she added.

However, the dollar has since rebounded, bouncing between 64 and 65 US cents over the last month or so – more than it was buying before the tariffs were unveiled – and improving against other currencies tied to the greenback.

That, Hunter said, is “more unusual”, but appears down to what’s happening to the US dollar more than a particular strength in the Aussie.

“The weakness in the US dollar during a period of heightened risk is in contrast with many previous episodes, though it’s too early to know whether this dynamic will continue,” she said.

“On average, the price of our exports in foreign currency terms hasn’t changed.

The so-called “liberation day” saw the Australian dollar plunge, but it’s since sharply rebounded. (AP)

“But the relative move of capital towards Australian assets compared to the United States… could support domestic investment activity.

“We’ll be monitoring how these channels play out over time.”

More broadly, Hunter said the uncertainty caused by Trump’s volatile trade policy could lead to households delaying spending and businesses pushing back hiring and investment plans, and could also push down prices, although she said the RBA “can’t be completely sure” about the overall impact.

You May Also Like

LA Mayor Karen Bass signs order to provide cash payments to immigrants affected by ICE raids

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed an executive order Friday to bolster protocols…

Knicks fail first test to implement Mike Brown’s vision in sloppy Summer League loss

LAS VEGAS — Mike Brown didn’t reveal much in his introductory news…

Boy shot in leg during hunting trip

A child has been shot in the leg during a hunting trip…

Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ Home Run Derby spot comes with Yankees injury risk

Jazz Chisholm Jr. is about to find out how his “70 percent”…