The dollar-shekels' official rate Monday was quoted at 3.98, the lowest level in five months. In later trading, the shekel weakened slightly and now is quoted at 3.987. The shekel broke the 4.00 level in May for the first time in eight years of an almost continuous weaker shekel that ended with the dollar valued at five shekels.

The reverse trend reflects a much stronger and stable Israeli economy and a weaker American dollar. The stronger shekel has helped offset higher costs of energy and food.