USD maintains strength amid economic data blackout period

The US Dollar Index continues to hold firm near recent highs as markets enter a data blackout period, leaving traders without fresh economic indicators to guide positioning. EUR/USD remains under pressure, trading below key resistance levels as the dollar's safe-haven appeal persists. The absence of significant economic releases has heightened focus on technical levels and existing market themes, including Federal Reserve policy expectations and global growth concerns. Market participants are maintaining defensive dollar positions ahead of next week's data releases. Technical analysis shows the Dollar Index defending support above 106.00, while EUR/USD struggles to break above 1.0550 resistance. The data vacuum has reduced volatility but maintained the dollar's underlying bid, with traders reluctant to take significant positions without clearer fundamental guidance. Next week's economic calendar will be crucial for determining near-term direction.