The euro edged up 0.3 percent to $1.2290. Last week, the common currency slid 1.6 percent, its worst weekly performance since November 2016, as declining risk appetites and higher volatility prompted market players to reduce their positions.
• The Capital economists say they expect the Fed to hike rates four times this year — one more than central bank officials themselves have indicated. It's a scenario that appears increasingly possible considering the hawkish rhetoric lately and sprouting inflation signs.
• U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday it was too early to tell whether a diplomatic detente between the two Koreas at the Winter Olympics would lead to results, but the move had not driven a wedge between Washington and Seoul.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un invited South Korean President Moon Jae-in for talks in Pyongyang, setting the stage for the first meeting of Korean leaders in more than 10 years.
• Vice President Mike Pence said in a newspaper interview the United States and South Korea have agreed on terms for further diplomatic engagement with North Korea, first with Seoul and then possibly leading to direct talks with Washington without pre-conditions.
• Oil prices rose by 1 percent on Monday, recovering some of last week’s steep losses as Asian stock markets found a footing after days of chaotic trading.
Brent crude futures were at $63.54 per barrel at 0728 GMT, up 75 cents, or 1.2 percent, from the previous close.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $60.04 a barrel. That was up 84 cents, or 1.4 percent, from their last settlement.
Thai
Eng