Dollar Firm Amid Broad Stock Sell-Off and Crude Oil Gains

The US dollar is mostly firmer against major currencies, but gains are minor in some cases. The Australian and Canadian dollars are exceptions to this trend, with their resilience notable despite facing US tariffs.

October WTI crude oil prices reached a new high for the month, exceeding $85, as bond markets remain under pressure. The stock sell-off is broadening and deepening today, with most large bourses in Asia Pacific falling, except Hong Kong.

The greenback approached JPY159.80 today, its best level since last month's intervention against the yen. However, market participants may draw cautious as the JPY160 level is approached, which could spur official action.