President Donald Trump wants a cheaper dollar, saying earlier this month the United States must match what he said was an attempt by other countries to weaken their own currencies.
The comments have fueled speculation the president can sell the greenback, which is close to multi-decade highs according to the International Monetary Fund on Wednesday, at least 6% stronger than guaranteed by economic fundamentals.
"Conditions seem increasingly favorable for the US government to intervene in the perception of overvaluation (dollars)," the Citi economist said in a note Wednesday.
Trump has repeatedly opposed the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates, complaining that higher interest rates hold back U.S. economic growth. while signs increasingly show Fed rate cuts when meeting at the end of this month, lower interest rates are unlikely to weaken the dollar to Trump's desired level.
Weaker dollars can help U.S. business. compete globally by making exports cheaper, increasing the economy and potentially helping Trump's bid to be re-elected in 2020