The dollar jumped on Wednesday and may continue to extend gains after a batch of upbeat US data affirmed the view that the world's largest economy was on a steady path to recovery. The greenback was on pace for its biggest one-day gain against the yen in more than three months and more than two weeks against the euro.
In midday New York trading, the dollar index, which measures the greenback's value against six other major currencies, was up 0.91 percent at 80.167. The dollar surged 1.5 percent against the yen to 83.23 yen. The euro fell 1.1 percent to $1.3157, touching the barrier at $1.3125 with a reportedly $15-$20 million payout. Traders said the seller of the option, who is on the hook for the payout, has bought a substantial amount of euros to try to keep it above $1.3125.