
Key points:
Official CBN (NAFEX) Rate: ₦1,455.38 / USD
Black-Market Rate: ₦1,470 / USD
Drivers: Heightened seasonal demand from importers and retailers for the festive period (Yuletide); Mixed signals from the US Federal Reserve's recent policy decision.
Top Tools: FMDQ for NAFEX Data, CBN Forex Portal, Aboki Fx
The Naira weakened at both the official and parallel markets on Wednesday due to rising seasonal dollar demand for Christmas and New Year sales. Despite the pressure, the currency's movement remains within its recent trading band as the market awaits clearer policy directions.
FAQ
What’s the gap between CBN & black-market rates? The spread widened to approximately ₦15, reflecting the immediate impact of increased festive season demand pressure in the informal market.
Will the naira strengthen soon? Short-term pressure from Yuletide demand may persist. Stability will depend on the CBN's market interventions and the flow of seasonal diaspora remittances to offset the demand.
How do oil prices affect rates? While fundamental, the current weakness is directly attributed to a predictable spike in end-of-year import demand, which temporarily outweighs other stabilizing factors.