Institutions: US-Iran tensions remain unresolved; hedge funds increase positions driving the dollar even higher

```htmlGolden Ten Data reported on March 23 that the Middle East conflict has lasted four weeks, with the US dollar exchange rate rising during this period. The market expects this reserve currency to appreciate further. Surging energy prices have supported the oil-export-driven US economy, and investors are flocking to this safe-haven asset, leaving the US dollar just one step away from a new high for the year. Options traders expect the US dollar to rise further, with one-month trading sentiment at its most optimistic level since 2022. Jens Naervig Pedersen, Senior Analyst at Danske Bank, said: “In reality, the US economy remains relatively resilient in the face of energy shocks, and we expect this to support the US dollar's performance in the coming weeks.” According to currency traders familiar with relevant transactions, hedge funds that bought the US dollar last Friday are now increasing their purchases. Although spot and options trading volumes are below recent averages, it is clear that leveraged investors are positioning themselves to bet on further US dollar strength.```