The US dollar is winding down the week on a firm note, but still in a consolidative mode. The euro and yen and Australian dollar are well within yesterday's ranges while sterling and the Canadian dollar pushing through yesterday's lows. Asian shares were mostly higher, though Chinese markets closed with slight losses. The MSCI Asia-Pacific Index rose (~0.7%) for a third session and secured a 2% gain for the week. European bourses are seeing some profit-taking ahead of the weekend, which trims their weekly gain. The Dow Jones 600 is off about 0.2% and is up 3% on the week. Today's small loss reflects a divided market. ... (full story)