Global Forex Market
DESPITE the Fed chair’s speech on Wednesday stating that the robust US economy could lead to faster rate hikes this year, the Dollar Index barely moved, closing at 101.15. The S&P 500 index fell 0.5% led by declines in financials, banks and healthcare sectors. It was a favourable week for US data as consumer prices and producer prices both inched up to 0.3% m/m in December while retail sales improved to 0.6% m/m. Industrial production had also expanded to 0.8% m/m supported by all major industry groups. Brent oil price fell by 2.3%, closing at US$54.16 on Friday following American Petroleum Institute (API) report showing huge gasoline build and US shale oil.
