Strong labor market data pushes US dollar higher for fourth straight session
The dollar rose for a fourth day as jobless claims fell more than expected on Thursday. Strong labor data suggests the Fed may hold rates steady for now.
The United States
US dollar strengthened for a fourth consecutive session on Thursday following the release of labor market data that exceeded analyst expectations. According to the U.S. Labor Department, weekly initial jobless claims fell by 23,000 to a seasonally adjusted 206,000. This development, reported on February 19, 2026, signaled continued economic stability and provided the Federal Reserve with greater leeway in its approach to interest-rate decisions.











