USD Steady as Bessent Targets 3% Growth, Comments on Iran and China

The US dollar held steady as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent outlined an optimistic economic outlook in a Fox Business Network interview, asserting that 3% GDP growth is "not unreasonable" for the United States. Bessent covered a wide range of topics including Iran, China, artificial intelligence, and broader US economic policy. Notably, he highlighted a substantial increase in purchases of Iranian oil arrangements involving China, a development that carries implications for both energy markets and geopolitical risk sentiment. The growth target of 3% is ambitious relative to recent trends and suggests the administration remains committed to pro-growth fiscal policy, which could be supportive for the dollar if accompanied by credible policy measures. For forex traders, Bessent's comments reinforce a narrative of US economic exceptionalism that has underpinned dollar strength. However, the lack of specific policy details limits the immediate market impact. Traders should monitor upcoming GDP data and fiscal policy announcements to assess whether the 3% growth target gains credibility.