Lira could start to find some broader support if CBT can bring inflation expectations down – ING

The Central Bank of Turkey (CBT) meets today to set interest rates. Economists at ING analyze the Turkish Lira (TRY) outlook ahead of the meeting. 

Will 250 bps of CBT tightening be enough?

So far, it is fair to say that the pace of policy tightening over recent months (900 bps) has disappointed market expectations. And another 250 bps rate hike to 20% in the one-week repo today would still leave real rates deeply in negative territory given inflation is running at close to 50%.

While 35% implied yield through the three-month forwards does make the Lira a high yielder, it does not seem as though the TRY has yet attracted international demand for the popular carry trade. 

If the central bank can bring inflation and inflation expectations down, making real rates far less negative, then the Lira could start to find some broader support. Otherwise, gradual depreciation on the back of high inflation looks to be the most likely path.