Gold Prices Rise as Powell Keeps Rate-Cut Hopes Alive and Central Banks Intervene

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Pile of Gold Round Coins
Credit: pexels.com, Pile of Gold Round Coins

Gold prices are on the rise, and it's all thanks to the Federal Reserve's decision to keep rate-cut hopes alive.

Powell, the Fed Chairman, has hinted at a potential rate cut, which has investors scrambling to buy gold as a safe-haven asset.

The price of gold has increased by 1.5% in the past week alone, with investors betting on a rate cut.

Central banks are also intervening in the market, buying gold to diversify their reserves and reduce their reliance on the US dollar.

Gold Prices Rise

Gold prices are on the rise, and it's not hard to see why. The Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's speech has fueled hopes of a future interest rate cut, which is good news for gold investors.

The U.S. dollar has been holding steady as investors evaluate the latest geopolitical and economic developments, but that's not the only factor at play here. Gold prices have been bolstered by the latest US jobs reading, which showed that US companies added the fewest jobs last month since the start of 2021.

Assorted-weight Gold-colored Gold Plated Bars
Credit: pexels.com, Assorted-weight Gold-colored Gold Plated Bars

This weak jobs report has added to the evidence that the labor market is shifting into a lower gear, boosting chances of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve. If the Fed does cut rates, it could be positive for non-interest bearing gold, which has already been supported by a weaker dollar.

Gold prices have risen significantly this year, up by more than 20% and peaking at a record $2,531.75 an ounce in August. This surge in gold prices is also being driven by strong over-the-counter purchases and haven demand due to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

Gold Price Holds Gain

Gold prices are holding their gain above $2,500 an ounce, thanks to the latest US jobs reading and rate-cut hopes.

The US companies added the fewest jobs last month since the start of 2021, which is a sign that the labor market is shifting into a lower gear. This boosts chances of the Federal Reserve's expected pivot to monetary easing in September.

A collection of gold bars and coins symbolizing wealth and investment.
Credit: pexels.com, A collection of gold bars and coins symbolizing wealth and investment.

A weak US payrolls report on Friday could help determine whether the Fed cuts by 25 or 50 basis points at its next meeting. Lower rates are typically positive for non-interest bearing gold.

Bullion is up by more than 20% this year and peaked at a record $2,531.75 an ounce in August.

Rate Cut Hopes

Gold prices are rising due to hopes of a future interest rate cut, fueled by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's speech.

Powell mentioned that efforts to reduce price pressures have been successful, putting the U.S. on a 'deflationary path.' This has sparked optimism among markets that the Fed might cut rates by September.

David Wilson, a seasoned expert in currency and commodities trading, notes that more proof is needed before a rate cut is guaranteed.

Hopes for Rate Cut

Gold prices rose after Fed Chair Jerome Powell's speech, fueled by hopes of a future interest rate cut.

Powell mentioned that efforts to reduce price pressures have been successful, putting the U.S. on a 'deflationary path'.

Credit: youtube.com, Fresh interest rate cut hope as core inflation falls | 9 News Australia

Markets are optimistic that by September, the Fed might have enough evidence to start cutting rates.

Recent economic data indicated that inflation was easing, according to Powell.

Traders widely anticipate a rate cut in September.

David Wilson, an expert in currency and commodities trading, notes that more proof is needed before a rate cut is guaranteed.

Central Bank Purchases

Central Bank Purchases have been a significant factor in maintaining gold prices. Central banks have been actively buying gold, contributing to its sustained gains.

Strong investment demand from Asia has also been a driving force behind gold's performance. This demand has been a key factor in gold's ability to hold its ground despite potential economic shifts.

Central bank gold buying has been a steady trend, helping gold maintain its hefty gains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How interest rate cuts affect gold prices?

When interest rates drop, gold prices often benefit as returns on risk-free assets decline. This shift can make gold a more attractive investment option for investors.

What happens to gold when the Fed raises rates?

When interest rates rise, the value of gold may decrease as it becomes more expensive for investors holding other currencies, making it less appealing to hold. This can lead to a decrease in gold's value and appeal.

How high will gold go in 2024?

Gold prices are predicted to reach $2,850 per ounce in 2024, with a potential to hit $3,000 by early 2025, driven by investor interest in diversification.

What is the Fed price prediction for gold?

The Fed's policy verdict is expected to impact gold prices, but there is no specific price prediction mentioned. The current gold price is struggling near $2,650 ahead of the Fed's decision.

Raquel Bogisich

Writer

Raquel Bogisich is a seasoned writer with a deep understanding of financial services in the Philippines. Her work delves into the intricacies of digital banks and traditional banking systems, offering readers insightful analyses and expert opinions on the evolving landscape of financial services. Her articles on digital banks in the Philippines and banks of the country have been featured in several leading financial publications, highlighting her ability to simplify complex financial concepts for a broader audience.

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