Dollar Strengthens as Iran War Safe-Haven Flows Offset Economic Headwinds

The US dollar emerged as an early winner of the Iran war, strengthening against major currencies as investors seek safe-haven assets despite deteriorating US economic fundamentals. American consumer confidence is nearing rock-bottom levels. The dollar's strength compounds fuel cost pressures for import-dependent economies, with Balkans nations reporting an oil shock as the conflict escalates. Markets remain at the "whim of Iran headlines" according to NYSE strategist Eric Criscuolo.