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Asian Currencies Steady Ahead of US CPI as Oil Prices Rise 
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Gold Prices Retreat From Two-Month High as Softer Inflation Eases Fed Rate Hike Bets 
Asian Currencies Steady as Dollar Holds Firm After U.S. Inflation Data 
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Asian currencies traded in a narrow range on Thursday as the U.S. dollar hovered near a seven-week low, with investors closely watching Middle East diplomatic developments and upcoming U.S. labor market data for clues on the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision.
The U.S. Dollar Index remained around 99.7 after falling to its weakest level since mid-June in the previous session. Market participants are largely staying on the sidelines ahead of Thursday's weekly jobless claims report and Friday's closely watched nonfarm payrolls data, which could shape expectations for future Fed policy.
The Japanese yen was little changed, with the USD/JPY pair trading near 157.7. While recent gains were supported by suspected government intervention, the yen struggled to extend its rally as investors weighed the Bank of Japan's outlook. BOJ officials have continued to signal that persistent domestic inflation could justify additional interest rate hikes over time.
China's onshore and offshore yuan also remained stable, while the South Korean won posted modest gains against the U.S. dollar. The Singapore dollar and Indian rupee saw limited movement, reflecting cautious market sentiment across the region.
Investor confidence remained restrained despite signs of progress in Middle East negotiations. Iran announced it had reached a preliminary understanding with Oman on a proposed shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit corridor. However, unresolved issues continue to cloud the outlook. Although U.S. President Donald Trump said an agreement could be close, Iranian officials reiterated that discussions are taking place only with Oman, highlighting ongoing uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Australia reported a return to a trade surplus in June as exports, led by stronger non-monetary gold shipments, rebounded while imports eased. The Australian dollar slipped slightly following the data release.
The Indian rupee remained one of Asia's stronger-performing currencies after gaining in five of the previous seven sessions. Lower crude oil prices and the Reserve Bank of India's decision to keep its benchmark repo rate unchanged at 5.25% continued to support the currency.
With geopolitical risks and economic uncertainty still in focus, traders are expected to remain cautious until fresh U.S. employment data provides clearer direction for the dollar and global currency markets.
