Economic News Boosts Dollar

The dollar rose against most currencies Wednesday, helped by reports of a robust U.S. economy, increased prospects for higher domestic interest rates and yen weakness in the aftermath of the Japanese earthquake.

The Federal Reserve said its survey of business conditions around the nation showed a vibrant economy and widespread signs of higher pressure on prices.

In another report, the Commerce Department said business inventories rose in November for the eighth consecutive month.

In late New York trading, the dollar was quoted at 1.5349 German marks, up from 1.5330 late Tuesday. The dollar was changing hands at 99.70 yen, up from 99.13 late Tuesday.

Canada .7037 1.4210 France .1886 5.3015 Germany .6516 1.5348 Great Britain 1.5684 .6376 Japan .010035 99.65