Signal Desk · Markets

Dollar stays near 18-month high as geopolitical risks climb

2026-10-13 · 2 sources · Economic Times Markets

In short

The US dollar stayed near an 18-month high, with the dollar index at 102.56. The report linked the move to rising tensions after attacks on energy facilities in the Middle East and Ukraine.

This matters for currency, crypto and oil markets because a stronger dollar can pressure other assets. The report does not say how long the holiday effect will last or where prices go next.

What the reporting says

The US dollar index held steady at 102.56 as geopolitical risks rose, according to publisher-supplied forex reporting. Fresh assaults on energy facilities in the Middle East and Ukraine were cited as support for the dollar, while the euro and British pound stayed relatively resilient. Bitcoin, ether and Brent crude were also described as weaker, and the report does not say how long the holiday effect will last or whether the move will persist.

Why it matters

The US dollar index held steady at 102.56 amid rising geopolitical risks, with fresh assaults on energy facilities in the Middle East and Ukraine cited in the reporting. The euro and British pound were described as resilient, while Bitcoin, ether and Brent crude were weaker. The move matters for currency markets and for assets priced in dollars. The reporting does not state a central bank action or a specific trigger beyond the conflict-related tensions and holiday impact.

Touches: Currency, Crypto, Commodities, Global, Markets

Sources