The U.S. dollar strengthened against the major currencies, as the threat of "fiscal cliff" in the U.S. is still a serious problem.

The euro fell against the dollar in thin trading on the background of statements by German Chancellor Merkel that the European crisis is far from over. Merkel predicts that 2013 will be another difficult year for the region's debt crisis "is far from over." We must have the will to act and everyone should be provided with social protection. The European sovereign crisis has shown how important this balance. The reforms we have started, are beginning to bear fruit. However, we need to be patient. The crisis is far from over. " Also worth noting is that Citigroup has lowered the probability that Greece will leave the euro zone in the next 18-24 months and 60%.