Gold price (XAU/USD) has seen a slight uptick for the third consecutive day, but lacks strong bullish conviction. This rise in price is due to the ongoing expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut, which has kept the US Dollar bulls on the defensive and lent some support to gold. However, the risk-on mood in the market is capping the upside as traders eagerly await the release of the US CPI report to provide more clarity on the direction of gold prices in the near term.
The idea that the Federal Reserve will begin cutting interest rates in September and again in December has undermined the US Dollar, supporting the gold price. Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s comments have fueled these rate-cutting expectations, leading to a tailwind for gold. However, the risk appetite in the market is holding back bullish traders from making significant moves in the gold market. This combination of factors has kept the price of gold relatively stable while investors wait for more information from the US CPI report.
Looking ahead, the US CPI report will play a crucial role in determining the next move for gold prices. The data will provide insights into the Federal Reserve’s rate-cutting path, which will impact the US Dollar dynamics and consequently the direction of gold prices. Technical analysis suggests that gold could aim to reclaim the $2,400 mark and retest its all-time peak. However, any corrective slide could find support at various levels before potentially shifting the near-term bias in favor of bearish traders.
Gold has historically been seen as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Apart from its use in jewelry, it is also considered a safe-haven asset and a hedge against inflation and depreciating currencies. Central banks are significant holders of gold, as they buy gold reserves to diversify their assets and strengthen their perceived economic stability. The inverse correlation between gold and the US Dollar, US Treasuries, and risk assets also plays a significant role in determining gold prices. Various factors such as geopolitical instability, economic recessions, and interest rates can influence the price of gold.
Overall, gold prices are currently being influenced by the expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut and the upcoming US CPI report. These factors have kept the US Dollar on the defensive and lent some support to gold, despite the prevailing risk-on mood in the market. Investors are eagerly awaiting more clarity on the direction of gold prices, which will largely depend on the upcoming data releases and market conditions.