# The US dollar is holding near an 18-month high as escalating conflict in the Middle East keeps investors cautious. Reuters reports traders are also watching US inflation figures due on Wednesday, which could influence the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate decision. Attacks on Saudi Arabian energy facilities and two tankers over the weekend have added to market uncertainty. Oil prices have fluctuated, with Brent crude trading at about 103-dollars a barrel in early Asian trade. The dollar’s strength could put pressure on emerging-market currencies, including the rand.
Dollar nears 18-month high