Time is on the Federal Reserve's side—unlike the last time Chinese markets were in turmoil.

The People's Bank of China lowered the yuan's reference rate against the dollar by 0.5 percent on Thursday, the most since August moves that sent shock waves through global markets and helped to delay a then-anticipated September rate increase by the Fed. This week's action roiled equities and raised fresh questions about China's economic strength.

The central bank has more than two months to assess the fallout from China's latest financial upheaval, as investors expect a rate increase in March at earliest. Between now and then, market volatility could calm and U.S. strength could outweigh uncertainty from Asia. If the currency change is determined to be a signal of weakening Chinese growth, however, it could cause the dollar to rise and commodity prices to fall, exacerbating trends that have damped U.S. inflation and making it harder for the central bank to justify its median outlook for four interest-rate increases this year.

Complete your profile to continue reading and get FREE access to Treasury & Risk, part of your ALM digital membership.

  • Critical Treasury & Risk information including in-depth analysis of treasury and finance best practices, case studies with corporate innovators, informative newsletters, educational webcasts and videos, and resources from industry leaders.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM and Treasury & Risk events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including PropertyCasualty360.com and Law.com.
NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.