Dollar Index in Longest Rise Since June as Jobs Data Show Growth

The Dollar Index gained for a fifth straight week, its longest rally since June, as employers added more jobs last month than forecast, signaling economic prospects for the U.S. exceeding other developed nations.

The euro touched its lowest level versus the greenback since December as European Central Bank policy makers said the region’s economy may shrink more than estimated and reduced their inflation forecast. The yen fell to the weakest level versus the dollar since 2009 as a report showed Japan’s current-account deficit widened and the incoming central bank chief endorsed buying longer-maturity bonds. A March 15 report may show U.S. consumer prices rose at a faster pace in February.