Dollar Rises as Oil Prices Surge Past $100 Amid Global Tensions
The US dollar surged on Friday due to higher U.S. Treasury yields and increased global tensions, causing inflation concerns. Brent oil prices climbed back above $100 a barrel after Yemen's Houthis attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.
The attack extended the Middle East war to a second major shipping chokepoint, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to promise 'major military punishment' for Iran and its Houthi allies. The threat of further violence pushed oil prices higher, contributing to inflation risks through disrupted supply and geopolitical tensions.
The Trump administration also announced new tariffs on imports from 60 countries accused of failing to enforce forced labor bans, extending temporary levies that were set to expire on July 24. This move added to the inflationary pulse, causing U.S. Treasury yields to rise.
The benchmark 10-year yield reached an over 18-month high above 4.7%, while the 30-year yield held well above the 5% level and 2-year yields were at their highest since February 2025. The dollar hovered near a 40-year peak against the yen, causing pain for the Japanese currency.