THE TELEGRAPH: The dollar has plummeted to all-time lows against both the euro and a basket of global currencies amid growing fears of a disorderly rout as the US property slump spreads to the broader economy.
The greenback dived after the US 'Philly' business index dropped 10.9 to 6.8 in October, with a shock fall in new orders and inventory, raising the chances of further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve this month.
The dollar crossed the barrier of $1.43 against the euro; the broader dollar index fell to 77.478, the lowest since the series began in 1973.
The plunge follows data released this week by the US Treasury showing a record $163bn (£80bn) exodus from all forms of US assets, led by unprecedented levels of US bonds sales by Japan, China and Taiwan.
Bundesbank chief Axel Weber gave the euro an extra lift by hinting strongly at more rate rises in Europe to head off inflation, expected to reach 2.6pc in Germany.
The growing belief the European Central Bank may keep tightening despite the credit crunch has caused traders to shift gear, renewing bets on the euro. But the surging currency has hit confidence in Europe, where industries in France, Italy and some German firms are warning of serious knock-on effects. Dollar dives as US slump spreads (more) By Ambrose Evans-Pritchard and Joe Moulds
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