Emerging-market currencies experienced broad gains on April 9, 2026, driven by renewed hopes for peace in the Middle East. This optimism stemmed from reports that Israel had agreed to hold direct talks with Lebanon. The positive news significantly boosted risk assets across global markets.
Most developing-nation currencies appreciated against the dollar on Thursday. Oil prices, in response to the improved prospects for a lasting ceasefire, pared their earlier advances. This occurred after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly stated his openness to direct negotiations with Lebanon.
Among the beneficiaries, Latin American currencies rallied uniformly. A notable strong performance was observed in the Israeli shekel, which strengthened to its highest level since 1995, reflecting the immediate positive impact of the de-escalation news on regional financial markets.
