🎧 Audio
📖 Script
The US dollar has recently experienced its worst performance in the first half of a year since 1973. This has left many investors and financial experts questioning whether this is a sign that the United States is losing its financial power and influence. The dollar is an essential currency in the world of international trade and finance. It is often seen as a stable and safe investment. When the value of the dollar drops significantly, it can create concerns about the overall economic health of the United States.
There are several reasons why the dollar’s value might be falling. One factor is the increasing national debt of the United States. As the country borrows more money, the value of its currency can decrease. Another reason could be changes in US monetary policy. If interest rates are lowered, it can make the dollar less attractive to investors seeking higher returns. Additionally, global economic conditions can also impact the dollar’s value. For instance, if other countries are experiencing economic growth, their currencies might become more appealing compared to the dollar.
Some experts argue that a weaker dollar is not necessarily a bad thing. It can make American goods cheaper for foreign buyers, potentially boosting exports and helping the US economy. However, others worry that a declining dollar could indicate a loss of confidence in the US economy and its ability to manage its finances. This could lead to higher inflation and increased costs for American consumers.
The situation highlights the complex factors that influence currency values and the interconnectedness of global economies. As investors and policymakers continue to monitor the situation, the future of the dollar remains uncertain. It will be essential to see how the US government responds to these financial challenges and whether it can implement policies to stabilize the currency.
📝 Vocabulary
-
– Investor: A person or organization that puts money into financial schemes, shares, or property with the expectation of achieving a profit.
▼ 日本語の意味を見る
（ここに日本語訳を追加できます）
-
– Currency: A system of money in general use in a particular country.
▼ 日本語の意味を見る
（ここに日本語訳を追加できます）
-
– Inflation: A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money.
▼ 日本語の意味を見る
（ここに日本語訳を追加できます）
-
– Export: To send goods or services to another country for sale.
▼ 日本語の意味を見る
（ここに日本語訳を追加できます）
-
– Monetary policy: The policy adopted by the monetary authority of a country that controls the supply of money.
▼ 日本語の意味を見る
（ここに日本語訳を追加できます）
✏️ Grammar Point
Present Perfect Tense – “The US dollar has recently experienced its worst performance in the first half of a year since 1973.”
▼🈁 文法の日本語補足を表示
（ここに「現在完了進行形は“ずっと〜してきた”を表す」などを補足）
❓ Listening Questions
- True/False: The US dollar recently had its worst first-half performance since 1973.
- MCQ: What is one reason mentioned for the dollar’s falling value?
a) Global peace
b) Increasing national debt
c) Innovation in technology
d) New trade agreements - MCQ: What can a weaker dollar potentially help with?
a) Increasing imports
b) Boosting exports
c) Lowering inflation
d) Reducing national debt
-
True
False -
a)
b)
c)
d) -
a)
b)
c)
d)
📚 Reading Questions
- What are some reasons for the dollar’s falling value?
- Why might some people not be worried about a weaker dollar?
- What does “interconnectedness” mean in the context of global economies?
-
🔑 解答を見る
4. Increasing national debt and changes in US monetary policy.
-
🔑 解答を見る
5. Because it could make American goods cheaper for foreigners, boosting exports.
-
🔑 解答を見る
6. The state of being connected with each other.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/07/07/nx-s1-5455867/trump-dollar-value-debt-currency
