Latest News

Gold prices head for 2nd weekly gain on Fed rate-cut optimism

Gold prices appeared set for a 2nd consecutive weekly gain on Friday, after recent U.S. inflation information fuelled expectations that the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates two times this year, weighing on the dollar and Treasury yields.

Area gold was up 0.4% at $2,384.86 per ounce, as of 0650 GMT. Bullion rates have actually gotten 1% up until now this week, having struck one-month highs in the last session. U.S. gold futures rose 0.2% at $2,389.20.

The upward predisposition for gold costs might stay, with the recent run in U.S. economic information using room for the Fed to think about earlier rate cuts in 2024 while geopolitical stress rock on, stated IG market strategist Yeap Jun Rong.

Information this week showing signs of cooling inflation offered the Fed excellent news, but policymakers haven't openly moved views yet about the timing of rate cuts financiers are encouraged will start this year.

Bullion is called an inflation hedge, but higher rates increase the chance cost of holding non-yielding gold.

Gold costs may correct lower as markets seek to re-establish the historic relationship in between gold and the U.S. dollar. It goes without saying that uncertainty will likely persist in gold markets in coming months, Commonwealth Bank of Australia said in a note.

The dollar index was down 0.7% for the week so far, making gold less expensive for other currency holders.

On a technical basis, the course of least resistance for now appears to be pointed to the benefit, said Ilya Spivak, head of global macro at Tastylive, including that if the all-time high at around $2,431.29 is broken, an extension to $2,500 may follow.

Spot silver rose 0.2% to $29.68 per ounce after striking an over three-year high in the previous session, and palladium dropped 0.6% to $987.84.

Platinum rose 0.8% to $1,065.83, after hitting its highest levels because May 12, 2023 on Thursday. The metal has gotten over 7% so far for the week.

(source: Reuters)