The US economy released at 12:30 GMT, its reading for the housing starts in July, which rose by about 1.19 million, less than forecasts of 1.26 million, and less than the previous reading of 1.24 million, this statement is considered negative for the US economy.

The US economy released at 12:30 GMT, its reading for July's building permits, at 1.34 million, higher than forecasts of about 1.27 million, and higher than the previous reading of 1.23 million after it was revised from 1.22 million, this statement is positive for the US economy.

US dollar rose against a basket of currencies today, to extend its gains for the 4th straight day to a 2-week high, on strong US retail sales data, in addition to the recovery of the US 10-year treasury bond yield, which have eased the US economy slowdown concerns. 

Dollar rose today by about 0.2% to 98.31 points, its highest level since August 2nd, from the opening of 98.13 points, with a high of 98.13.

The index rose by 0.2% yesterday, marking its third daily gain in a row, after the release of strong US retail sales data for July, which have rose by 0.7%, exceeding forecasts of 0.3%, and higher than the previous reading of 0.3%.

In addition to the 10-year Treasury yield rebounding to trade again above the 2-year Treasury yields, which has eased the US recession concerns.

Investors anticipate several US economic data later today, with the housing starts reading, in addition to consumer sentiment reading during August

The US building permits are expected to reach 1.27 million in July from 1.23 million in June, and the housing starts are expected to rise to 1.26 million from 1.25 million in the previous reading.

Additionally, the University of Michigan's preliminary reading of consumer sentiment during August is expected to be at 97.2, from 98.4 in July.

Silver prices fell in the European session today, the first loss in the last three days, as dollar rose, but silver is still on its way for the second straight weekly gain on strong haven demand.

As of 11:14 GMT, silver fell about 0.5% to $17.18 an ounce, from the opening of $17.26, with a high of $17.32, and a low of $17.05.

Silver rose by 0.3% yesterday, its second daily gain, alongside most other precious metals.

While dollar rose today to a 2-week high of 98.31 points, extending gains for the fourth consecutive day, due to strong US retail sales data in addition to the recovery of the US Treasury yields, which have eased the US economy slowdown concerns.

During this week, silver rose by 1.4%, on its way for the second weekly gain in a row on strong haven demand, as global economic recession concerns mounted.