Colombian Peso Holds Steady Against USD Amid Mixed Signals

(MENAFN- The Rio Times) The Colombian peso (COP) opened at 4,073.56 per U.S. dollar (USD) on February 24, 2025, reflecting no change from Sunday's rate.

This stability follows a week of volatility driven by fluctuating oil prices, U.S. economic data, and speculation about Colombia's monetary policy. Compared to the same day last month, the peso has strengthened by 4.05%, but it remains 3.14% weaker year-over-year.

The peso's performance over the weekend remained subdued as global markets digested mixed signals. Oil prices, a key driver of Colombia's economy, fell slightly to $72 per barrel last week, pressuring the peso due to reduced export revenues.

Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index gained strength, supported by higher Treasury yields and strong retail sales data, which bolstered demand for the greenback.

Market analysts pointed to Colombia's central bank maintaining its benchmark interest rate at 10.25% as a balancing act between controlling inflation-still hovering at 10%-and supporting economic growth, which is expected to reach 2.8% in 2025.



However, traders remain cautious about potential interventions if the peso weakens further. Last week saw modest outflows from Colombian-focused ETFs, with the Global X MSCI Colombia ETF losing $5 million on February 20.
Colombian Peso Holds Steady Amid Market Uncertainty
This reflects waning investor confidence amid concerns over falling commodity prices and global risk aversion toward emerging markets. Technically, USD/COP remains above its 50-day moving average of 4,093.82 but below key resistance levels near 4,100 COP/USD.

Bancolombia's Juan Morales highlighted steady trading volumes at 300,000 contracts on Friday. Meanwhile, Citi's Carlos Rivera noted widening spreads overnight as traders awaited fresh cues.

Rumors circulated over the weekend about potential central bank interventions if the peso weakens past the critical 4,100 level. However, no official confirmation has surfaced. Coffee prices rose slightly to $2.10 per pound, offering minor support to Colombia's export revenues.

Looking ahead, traders will closely monitor U.S. economic data releases this week for signs of further dollar strength. For now, the peso remains in a holding pattern as global and domestic factors continue to shape its trajectory.

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