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Familiarity with terminology used in financial markets is arguably highly important for those investing in financial products. This understanding can assist with both entry and exit decision-making in the context of an individual’s risk profile and objectives.
Two terms that are often used to describe the overall position of a central bank are “Hawkish” and “Dovish.”
For traders and investors, understanding the subtle clues in central banks’ communications about their policy stances can be vital, irrespective of their chosen trading or investing approach, as the impact can be far-reaching. Such communications are often released within statements that go along with interest rate decisions themselves, individual speeches from central bank members, and, of course, interpretations and opinions contributed by financial media commentators.
It’s important to note that neither a hawkish nor a dovish stance is universally good or bad. The appropriateness of either approach will depend on specific economic conditions and is always to topic of much debate among the financial community as well as within central banks themselves.
Other key factors to consider are not only the stance itself but also whether there are changes in the degree to which this is the case, and of course, how well or otherwise this matches current market expectations.
Irrespective of the detail, the bottom line remains that because of the significant influence of the central bank stance, both in the short and long term, being attuned to these policy shifts and adapting trading strategies accordingly can be a powerful tool for traders.
The purpose of this article is to describe these terms in a little more detail, their implications for financial markets in the context of the economic changes that may result from either.
Hawkish Policy
The hawkish stance emphasises the importance of keeping inflation in check and curbing economic overheating, even if it means sacrificing some economic growth in the process. In practical terms, this is often delivered through increasing interest rates, and supporters of a hawkish approach believe that maintaining stable prices creates a more predictable economic environment, considered essential for making informed investment and financial decisions.
Dovish policy
A dovish policy stance is typically adopted by a central bank to stimulate economic growth. It is characterised by a more accommodative monetary policy, and includes lowering interest rates and may even involve putting in other measures to increase money supply in the economy. The main objective is to encourage borrowing and investment, increase consumer spending, and create a supportive environment for employment growth.
Implications for Financial Markets:
As currencies are traded in pairs, the implications will be somewhat dependent on more than one central bank policy.
One final point worth emphasising is that the impact of central bank policy and the hawkish or dovish viewpoint, although mostly impacting on the national economy, is likely to have far-reaching effects beyond the local economy if it is from one of the major economic powers e.g. US. The impact will spread throughout the global financial markets, including, in this case, commodity prices.
Summary
Both hawkish and dovish stances have significant impacts on financial markets and the broader economy. The effectiveness of either approach depends on the prevailing economic conditions and the goals of the respective central bank.
For traders and investors, understanding the subtle clues in central banks’ communications about their policy stances can be vital. Hawkish signals might lead to short-term rallies in the currency but declines in bond and equity markets, while dovish signals might have the opposite effect. Being aware of these policy shifts, knowing key relevant dates of related events, sand adapting trading strategies accordingly can be a powerful tool for traders and investors alike.
The information provided is of general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situations or needs. Before acting on any information provided, you should consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. All opinions, conclusions, forecasts or recommendations are reasonably held at the time of compilation but are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Go Markets Pty Ltd, ABN 85 081 864 039, AFSL 254963 is a CFD issuer, and trading carries significant risks and is not suitable for everyone. You do not own or have any interest in the rights to the underlying assets. You should consider the appropriateness by reviewing our TMD, FSG, PDS and other CFD legal documents to ensure you understand the risks before you invest in CFDs. These documents are available here.
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