U.S. and China Seek Middle Ground on Currency Dispute Ahead of Obama Visit

The currency dispute between the United States and China has often reached a fevered pitch over the past decade, but both nations have softened their stance ahead of U.S. President Barack Obama's visit next week.

However, analysts remain uncertain as to whether or not China and the United States are serious about making policy adjustments, or are simply trying to ensure that Obama's first trip to the nation as president goes smoothly.

In a rare tweaking of policy language, the People's Bank of China (BOC) signaled on Wednesday that it might take other major currencies - not just dollar - into account when guiding its exchange rate.