Traders are now pricing in two quarter-point Fed rate cuts by the end of the year as almost a done deal. SHUTDOWN ANGST HURTS DOLLAR, BOOSTS GOLDWhile U.S. stocks have performed well, he added, uncertainty about the credibility of U.S. institutions more generally has manifested in a weaker dollar. The MSCI's broadest index of global stocks was up about 0.25% on Thursday, after European stocks hit another record high, up about 0.6%. "As is often the case, fresh highs are likely to beget yet more fresh highs here, with momentum still firmly with the bulls, and the fundamental case for further upside in PMs (precious metals) a solid one too," said Michael Brown, senior research strategist at Pepperstone. Brent crude futures gained 0.2% to $65.48 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude added 0.2% to $61.90 a barrel.