US Dollar firmer ahead of FOMC, near 97.30

The greenback, tracked by the US Dollar Index, is recovering the smile after two consecutive sessions with losses, now testing the 97.30 region.

US Dollar attention to FOMC

The index manages to keep the trade above the 97.00 handle for the time being and ahead of key US releases due in the second half of the week. The Fed is expected to keep its rates unchanged at today’s meeting, while a more constructive tone is seen from the statement.

Further data will see June’s Durable Goods Orders and Pending Home Sales, seconded by the weekly report on crude oil inventories by the EIA.

US Dollar relevant levels

The index is gaining 0.05% at 97.22 and a break above 97.62 (high Jul.25) would expose 98.58 (high Mar.1) and finally 99.95 (high Jan.21). On the other hand, the immediate support lines up at 96.77 (low Jul.21) ahead of 96.65 (200-day sma) and then 95.38 (low Jul.5).