Even as speculative unwinds look largely done, rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Russia should be watched as it could bolster safe haven demand for CHF and JPY, DBS FX & Credit Strategist Chang Wei Liang notes.

SNB introduces a floor for EUR/CHF

“Egypt’s aviation ministry instructed all airlines to avoid Iran airspace due to military drills, while Ukraine staged a surprise military incursion into Russia. We are cautious that further strength in CHF could trigger an unexpected policy reaction.” 

“Unlike the undervalued JPY, CHF is highly overvalued. Recent CHF gains have extended its overvaluation towards the Aug 2011 record high based on our DEER model, which subsequently prompted SNB to introduce a floor for EUR/CHF.” 

“Yesterday, Swissmem put out a public statement calling SNB to act quickly in response to the sudden rise in CHF that is threatening a vulnerable recovery for overseas sales. SNB has already cut rates twice this year, and there is scope for more cuts to cool CHF demand.”