首席经济学家热议汇率： 人民币短期温和升值

Core Viewpoint - The short-term outlook for the RMB shows potential for appreciation, particularly influenced by a weakening USD and seasonal settlement factors, with a possibility of reaching around 6.8. However, the mid-term perspective suggests a return to fundamental levels, fluctuating around 7 [1][2]. Group 1: USD and RMB Short-term and Mid-term Trends - The USD is currently under pressure due to high debt and deficit levels in the U.S., which may lead to depreciation, particularly against currencies like the Euro [2]. - Experts believe that while the USD index is in a phase of adjustment, it is not expected to decline unilaterally; the RMB has short-term appreciation potential but cannot resolve structural economic issues through significant appreciation [1][2]. - There is a consensus that if the U.S. experiences three interest rate cuts in 2026, the RMB could reach 6.8 this year, indicating a trend of RMB appreciation in the context of a weakening USD [2]. Group 2: Long-term Outlook for the International Monetary System - Experts agree that the international monetary system is undergoing structural changes, moving towards a more decentralized and multipolar currency landscape, rather than a sudden decline of the USD [4]. - The importance of assets outside traditional fiat currencies, such as gold and commodities, is increasing due to rising fiscal pressures and debt levels across major economies [4]. - The RMB's international status is closely tied to improvements in domestic economic fundamentals and asset returns, with its use in international trade settlements expected to rise, especially as China is a major buyer of commodities [5][6]. Group 3: Challenges and Opportunities for RMB Internationalization - The key bottleneck for RMB internationalization lies in its financing functions rather than trade settlements, suggesting that enhancing offshore RMB markets and cross-border financing mechanisms could improve its stability and attractiveness [6]. - The long-term vision for the international monetary system may evolve into a tri-polar structure with the USD, Euro, and RMB coexisting, although the USD will likely maintain its status as the primary reserve and payment currency for an extended period [5][6].