Sat, Jun 03, 2006 - Page 11 News List

Korean, Taiwan currencies drop on export concerns

LOSING WEEK The won and NT dollar declined against the greenback as worries mounted over rising interest rates that could drag down growth

BLOOMBERG

The South Korean won and New Taiwan dollar had a losing week after overseas investors dumped stocks in the region on concern demand for exports will slow.

Investors have withdrawn money from emerging-market stocks and bonds on prospects rising world interest rates will slow growth and spending, damping the appeal of Asian assets and the currencies.

Net purchases of stocks in the past three days in South Korea and Taiwan failed to offset the outflows.

The won fell 0.3 percent to close at 948 against the US dollar this week, according to Seoul Money Brokerage Services Ltd. The NT dollar dropped 0.1 percent to NT$32.08.

Investors abroad may bring funds home after dumping Asian stocks, adding to sales of the currencies. While foreigners were net stock buyers in South Korea in the past three trading sessions, they sold a net US$2.2 million in the last 10 days.

The US is the biggest buyer of Asian goods and countries in the region rely on exports for about half their economies. Interest-rate futures were pricing in a 74 percent chance the Federal Reserve will boost rates for a 17th time this month.

The Singapore dollar and Thailand's baht strengthened yesterday on speculation lower crude oil prices will help reduce US dollar demand from importers. Asia is a net importer of oil.

This story has been viewed 2232 times.
TOP top