The dollar index maintained its recent rally, holding above 108.3 on Tuesday, as President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports "without exceptions or exemptions." Trump also revealed plans to introduce reciprocal tariffs on other countries in the coming days. This move raised concerns about a global trade war that could fuel inflation, potentially limiting the Federal Reserve's ability to cut interest rates further. Traders were also preparing for Fed Chair Jerome Powell's testimony before Congress on Tuesday and Wednesday, hoping for more clarity on the future path of interest rates. Additionally, the latest consumer inflation report is due on Wednesday, followed by producer inflation data on Thursday. While the dollar held firm across most currencies, it struggled against the Australian dollar, which found support from stronger commodity prices.

Monetary policy in the US is shaped by the Federal Reserve (Fed). The Fed has two mandates: to achieve price stability and foster full employment. Its primary tool to achieve these goals is by adjusting interest rates. When prices are rising too quickly and inflation is above the Fed's 2% target, it raises interest rates, increasing borrowing costs throughout the economy. This results in a stronger US Dollar (USD) as it makes the US a more attractive place for international investors to park their money. When inflation falls below 2% or the Unemployment Rate is too high, the Fed may lower interest rates to encourage borrowing, which weighs on the Greenback.(Cay) Newsmaker23

Source: Fxstreet