Headline: PBOC Expected to Fix USD/CNY Near 7.0964 as Daily Midpoint Arrives
China’s central bank is anticipated to set today’s USD/CNY reference rate close to 7.0964, with the daily fixing typically released around 01:15 GMT. The level will help anchor yuan trading for the session, guiding price action in the onshore foreign exchange market and informing sentiment across Asia currency pairs.
The People’s Bank of China operates a managed float regime for the renminbi, publishing a central midpoint each morning that serves as the day’s reference rate. This fixing reflects market supply and demand, macroeconomic data, and movements in global currencies, particularly the US dollar. Banks and market participants use the midpoint to frame pricing and manage risk for trade and investment flows.
Once the midpoint is set, the yuan is allowed to trade within a band currently set at plus or minus 2% around that reference rate. If moves toward the edge of the band become disorderly or volatility spikes, the central bank may step in to smooth fluctuations, helping maintain stability while allowing gradual adjustments. For FX traders, exporters, and investors, today’s fixing level will be a key indicator of policy tone and near-term direction for the USD/CNY exchange rate.
Key Points – Expected USD/CNY reference rate: around 7.0964 – Daily fixing typically published near 01:15 GMT – PBOC sets a midpoint that anchors onshore yuan trading – Managed float regime with a ±2% trading band around the midpoint – Central bank may intervene to curb excessive volatility – Fixing influences intraday USD/CNY moves and broader FX sentiment
