Dollar Struggles Near Five-Month Low Amid Economic Concerns

The U.S. dollar remained weak near a five-month low against major currencies on Wednesday, weighed down by ongoing concerns over the U.S. economy and uncertainty surrounding President Donald Trump’s trade policies.

The dollar index hovered at 103.47 after sliding 0.46% on Tuesday to a five-month low of 103.21. Weaker U.S. economic data, including a decline in small-business confidence for the third straight month, heightened recession fears. Investors are now focused on the upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which could spark market volatility.

"The market faces a lose-lose situation," said Julien Lafargue, chief strategist at Barclays Private Bank. "A strong CPI could fuel stagflation concerns, while a weak reading may solidify recession fears."

The euro edged down 0.05% to $1.0913 but remained close to a five-month high of $1.0947. Optimism over a potential Ukraine ceasefire and Germany’s fiscal spending plans have supported the currency, though internal political hurdles persist. Meanwhile, the British pound slipped 0.11% to $1.2933 after a strong rally on Tuesday.

The Japanese yen weakened to 148.01 per dollar, recovering from Tuesday’s five-month high of 146.545. The Canadian dollar also saw turbulence following Trump’s tariff policy reversal on steel and aluminum. Traders now await the Bank of Canada’s rate decision, widely expected to bring a 0.25% cut.

Bitcoin stabilized at $82,821 after rebounding from a four-month low of $76,666.98.

With trade uncertainties and economic concerns mounting, market volatility is set to continue as investors seek clarity on U.S. growth prospects.