Dollar Fluctuates amid Concerns over Economic Slowdown

Dollar Fluctuates amid Concerns over Economic Slowdown Singapore, 11 Mar (ONA) — The US dollar index experienced
fluctuations today, stabilizing at 103.8. The index was weighed
down by losses against the Japanese yen, which surged to a five-month
high, highlighting the yen’s status as a safe-haven currency amid
market uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the dollar showed slight gains against the Australian
dollar and the British pound.

Investor sentiment has been heavily influenced by concerns about a
potential slowdown in US economic growth. This caution was reflected
in the sharp declines in US stocks: the Nasdaq dropped by 4%, and the
S&P 500 lost 2.7%, further suggesting that market participants are
bracing for economic challenges ahead.

The sell-off in equities, coupled with the resilience of bonds and
currencies signaling a slowdown, underscores the growing anxiety
about the trajectory of US growth, which is adding pressure on the
dollar.

The yen surged to a five-month high of 146.55 per dollar before
settling around 147.24. This marks a notable drop for the dollar,
which has fallen over 7% since hitting a six-month high against the
yen in January 2025.

The Chinese yuan also gained, rising by 0.2% to 7.2426 per dollar,
while the risk-sensitive Australian dollar experienced a slight
retreat, hovering near its 50-day moving average at $0.6266.

The British pound maintained strength, staying above its 200-day
moving average at $1.2875, and the euro remained steady, holding
above $1.08.— Ends/Khalid