Dollar Falls to Yearly Low, Gold Hits Record High Amid Fed Cut Speculations

The dollar plunged to its lowest level this year against the yen, while gold reached a record high following increased expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut next week. Markets rallied as speculation of a potential half-point cut grew. Influential figures and recent economic data influenced the changing market sentiments.

The dollar tumbled to its lowest point this year against the yen on Friday, with gold soaring to a record high. This occurred following an overnight surge in investor expectations for a significant Federal Reserve interest rate cut next week. Stocks, Treasury prices, and commodities all saw gains as the likelihood of a half-point cut from the Fed increased from approximately 14% the previous day to 41%.

Prominent former New York Fed President Bill Dudley supported the possibility of a substantial cut, aligning with other market analysts. "I've been firmly in the 25-basis point camp until now. This actually makes me think they might go 50," noted City Index market strategist Fiona Cincotta. The dollar plunged as much as 1.0% to 140.36 yen, its weakest since December 28, and was last down 0.74% at 140.755 yen.

Meanwhile, the yen has been bolstered by hawkish comments from Bank of Japan officials, with policy board member Naoki Tamura expressing concern over rising inflation risks. As global shares continued to climb for a fifth consecutive day, the euro rose 0.13% to $1.10863, while crude oil prices extended their gains following the impact assessment of Hurricane Francine in the Gulf of Mexico.

(With inputs from agencies.)