U.S. Dollar Holds Near 104 as Strong Data, Global Uncertainty Shape Sentiment

The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) remained steady near 104 on Friday, as mixed economic indicators and global uncertainties influenced sentiment around the dollar’s direction. Data revealing a boost in consumer sentiment and robust core capital goods orders helped support the dollar, though volatile factors like upcoming international elections and the Federal Reserve’s cautious rate approach left traders on alert.

Consumer Sentiment Beats Expectations

The University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index surged to 70.5, surpassing both the forecasted 68.9 and last month’s reading of 68.9. The improvement signals a growing consumer optimism around economic conditions, which often drives higher spending, a critical component of U.S. GDP. For traders, this index is a pivotal measure as it can indicate upcoming retail and business activity levels, potentially boosting the dollar due to increased economic activity.

The consumer sentiment jump reflects the preliminary survey, a version of the data known to have immediate market impact. This uptick provides a bullish undertone for the dollar, as higher consumer confidence can often lead to stronger currency value amid expectations of rising domestic spending.

Core Capital Goods Orders Rise Despite Higher Rates

Core capital goods orders—often a proxy for business investment—rose 0.5% in September, exceeding the 0.1% forecast. This positive report from the Commerce Department follows a 0.3% increase in August, suggesting a resilience in business spending despite elevated borrowing costs. Orders for non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, remained steady, though a slowdown in third-quarter momentum is expected due to ongoing rate pressure from the Federal Reserve.

September’s decline in durable goods orders by 0.8%, primarily driven by reduced aircraft demand, also showed underlying strength as key areas like primary metals and fabricated metals saw order increases. However, transportation orders fell 3.1%, continuing their August decline, largely attributed to Boeing’s recent production challenges and strike-related delays.

Dollar Finds Support in Global Uncertainties and Fed Outlook

The dollar’s appeal as a safe-haven asset strengthened as international factors, including Japan’s upcoming election and the uncertain economic outlook in Europe, weighed on traders’ risk sentiment. This was compounded by rising volatility in currency options as investors prepared for key central bank meetings and policy shifts in Japan, the United States, and the UK.

Traders remain attuned to the Federal Reserve’s cautious tone, especially as policymakers signal a slower rate-cut path. The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield remained stable after breaching 4.25% earlier in the week, with the Fed set to meet in November. Current market pricing points to a 97% probability of a 25-basis-point rate cut, reflecting the Fed’s deliberative stance as inflation concerns linger.

Market Forecast

With steady consumer sentiment and resilient capital goods orders, the U.S. dollar appears positioned for moderate gains, though a volatile external environment could cap significant upward movement. Market sentiment leans toward a cautiously bullish outlook for the dollar in the near term, supported by safe-haven flows and a relatively stable domestic economy. Traders will closely monitor upcoming Fed decisions and international developments as potential catalysts for the DXY’s next directional shift.