Earlier the ECB said the forex was keeping its benchmark interest rate on hold at a record low of 1 percent for the tenth month running, as expected by economists. The ECB said the forex would return next month to competitive tenders for three-month loans for banks, a sign it is more comfortable with money market conditions. It balanced the move by extending unlimited funds at flat rates unitl October, longer than most analysts had expected. The comments reinforced expectations the U.S. Federal Reserve is likely to hike interest rates before the ECB -- a move that the forex would boost the value of dollar-based assets. The euro fell versus the dollar on Thursday as comments by the European Central Bank reinforced the view interest rates in the forex will remain low in the foreseeable future. For more forex, please go to Forex Currency. Edited by Mia