The dollar index (DXY00) today is up by +0.23%. Today's stock slump is boosting liquidity demand for the dollar. Also, higher crude oil prices today increased inflation expectations, a hawkish factor for Fed policy, and a positive factor for the dollar. The dollar maintained its gains after the Conference Board US Apr consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose to a 4-month high.
Heightened US-Iran tensions are boosting demand for the dollar as a safe-haven. The US and Iran are locked in a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz, with both sides blocking the waterway to gain leverage during an extended ceasefire.
