In June, Australia’s S&P Global Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) reached 51.2, a notable increase from 50.7, as per the recent data from S&P Global released on Tuesday.
The S&P Global Services PMI for the same month improved slightly to 49.9, up from 48.7, while the Composite PMI for June also rose to 49.8, compared to the previous 48.7.
These initial PMI figures for June have had minimal influence on the Australian dollar (AUD). The AUD/USD pair is currently in the negative zone, trading at approximately 0.6998, which is a slight drop from Monday’s close of 0.6994.
What does Australia’s S&P Global Manufacturing PMI data mean for the Australian dollar?
The S&P Global Manufacturing PMI serves as a key indicator of business activity within Australia’s manufacturing sector. Positive results from this index could boost confidence in the Australian dollar (AUD).
A PMI reading significantly above 50, especially one that exceeds expectations, signifies that the economy is robust and gaining momentum. If this trend continues, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) might consider further interest rate increases.
Technical analysis: AUD/USD remains bearish in the short term
Currently, the AUD/USD is positioned below the 100-day simple moving average (SMA) and Bollinger’s midline, indicating a short-term bearish trend. The pair appears to gravitate towards the lower half of the recent Bollinger envelope. Yet, the Relative Strength Index (14) is near the oversold zone at 36. This implies there is ongoing downside pressure, but perhaps there’s a chance for a brief respite instead of immediate declines.
On the upper end, initial resistance appears around the 0.7083-0.7085 range. Here, the Bollinger middle band and 100-day SMA will likely limit any recovery attempts. However, if buyers manage to apply more pressure, a stronger resistance level might emerge at the Bollinger upper band near 0.7212. On the downside, significant support aligns with the Bollinger lower band near 0.6953; breaking below this point could reinforce the current bearish outlook and reveal further declines.
Economic Indicators
S&P Global Manufacturing PMI
The Manufacturing PMI is released monthly and acts as a leading indicator of business activity in Australia. This data stems from a survey of executives in private firms and reflects changes in current business conditions compared to the prior month. It forecasts trends in major economic indicators such as GDP, industrial production, and inflation. The index ranges from 0 to 100; a figure above 50 signals expansion in the manufacturing sector, considered a positive sign for the AUD.
Final release: Sunday, May 31, 2026 23:00
Frequency: monthly
Actual:50.7
Consensus: 50.2
Previous: 50.2
Australian Dollar Frequently Asked Questions
A key factor influencing the Australian dollar (AUD) is the interest rate established by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Given Australia’s wealth of resources, iron ore prices also play a significant role. Additionally, inflation, growth rates, trade balance, and the economic situation in China, its main trading partner, impact the AUD value. Market sentiment also matters—investors may lean toward riskier assets or seek security, with a risk-on sentiment favoring the AUD.
The RBA influences the AUD by setting interest rates, which affects lending rates across the economy. Its primary aim is to achieve a stable inflation rate of 2-3% through adjustments. Relatively higher interest rates compared to other central banks tend to support the AUD, while lower rates could weaken it. The RBA’s quantitative easing or tightening can further affect credit conditions; easing can be negative for the AUD, while tightening generally supports it.
China, being Australia’s largest trading partner, significantly influences the AUD. When China’s economy is thriving, it increases demand for Australian raw materials and goods, boosting the currency’s value. Conversely, slower growth in China can depress the AUD. As a result, fluctuations in China’s economic data can directly sway the Australian dollar.
Iron ore constitutes Australia’s largest export, valued at approximately $118 billion annually, mainly headed to China. Consequently, shifts in iron ore prices can directly impact the AUD—generally, rising prices bolster the currency’s value due to increased demand. Conversely, falling prices usually weaken it, affecting Australia’s trade balance.
The balance of trade, or the difference between export earnings and import expenses, also affects the AUD’s value. A positive trade surplus, driven by strong demand for Australian goods, will typically appreciate the AUD, while a deficit could lead to depreciation.





