Exchange Rate
Seoul stocks close slightly lower amid mixed signals on Iran war
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South Korean stocks closed slightly lower Friday amid mixed US signals on its war with Iran and eased chip sector concerns. The benchmark KOSPI fell 0.4 percent to 5,438.87, while the won weakened against the dollar.
The Mexican peso ended the session up 0.15% against the dollar at 17.76 pesos per unit, per Banco de México data. Traders assessed the feasibility of a ceasefire in Iran ahead of Banxico's monetary policy decision on Thursday. Analysts forecast the currency to hold in a 17.65-17.85 pesos per dollar range.
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The war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, started on February 28, 2026, has driven oil prices above 100 dollars per barrel, closing the Strait of Hormuz and creating volatility in global markets. In Mexico, this could mean additional oil revenues of 406 billion pesos if the average price holds at 90 dollars for the year. However, the conflict has also depreciated the Mexican peso and accelerated inflation to 4.02 percent in February.
South Korea's major commercial banks are intensifying efforts alongside government foreign exchange authorities to curb the local currency's recent weakness. They are offering incentives for customers to sell U.S. dollars and lowering interest rates on foreign-currency deposits. The won has been hovering near the 1,450 level against the dollar amid ongoing pressures.
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U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the recent depreciation of the Korean won does not align with South Korea's strong economic fundamentals. During a meeting this week with Seoul's Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol, he emphasized that excess volatility in the foreign exchange market is undesirable. The two sides discussed the full implementation of a bilateral trade and investment agreement.
Argentina's Central Bank has launched four administrative probes against exchange houses for irregular operations exceeding US$1.190 million in 2022 and 2023. Investigations uncovered dollar loans to low-income individuals and potential diversions to the informal market. The probe involves the Financial Information Unit and federal courts.
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Continuing its strong run from last week when it first approached 18 per dollar, the Mexican peso edged up 0.02% to close at 17.99 against the US dollar on December 19, following a 25 basis point cut by the Bank of Mexico. Bank quotes show the dollar at 18.47, with analysts eyeing potential corrections amid rising dollar strength.
Seoul shares rebound more than 5% on eased Iran tensions
March 04, 2026 20:26Seoul stocks rebound nearly 10 percent after sharp drop
February 16, 2026 10:35Mexican peso cedes ground against dollar on February 16
February 06, 2026 22:15Mexican peso appreciates against dollar on February 6
February 02, 2026 03:32Mexican peso slightly appreciates against dollar on February 2
January 14, 2026 18:03Bank of Korea holds key rate steady amid weak won
January 07, 2026 19:15Korean Won Depreciation Eases but FX Volatility Persists, Financial Authorities Say
December 29, 2025 17:10Mexican peso achieves historic annual gain in 2025
December 27, 2025 20:31Experts forecast won-dollar annual average at 1,420 amid ongoing stabilization efforts
December 24, 2025 21:09Korean won fifth-weakest globally in Q4 amid ongoing pressures