gold prices are maintaining their momentum as they approach the significant level of $2,500, following a rebound observed on Friday. As traders prepare for the upcoming US Consumer Price Index (CPI) release later this week, there is a keen focus on how this data may influence the Federal Reserve’s decisions regarding interest rates. The anticipation of a potential rate cut has provided support for gold prices, which are navigating within established parameters.
Currently, gold is resting around the crucial support level of $2,498 amid a generally risk-averse atmosphere, despite minor upticks in US equity futures. Concerns over demand have heightened following disappointing inflation figures from China, which came in below expectations. This has opened the door for speculation that Chinese authorities could implement additional stimulus measures, which would support the precious metal, known for its allure in uncertain economic climates.
The prospect of a significant interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve has fortified the bullish outlook for gold in a broader context. However, a slight increase in US Treasury yields, stemming from a rebound in stock futures, may impose a ceiling on further increases in gold prices. The recent weak employment data in the US also sparked anxiety about a potential economic downturn, bolstering demand for safe-haven assets such as gold and the US dollar.
Turning attention to the market outlook, gold prices are likely to remain within their current range until the CPI data is released. This data is expected to introduce volatility in the US dollar and consequently affect gold ’s trajectory. Technically, as long as gold trades above the 21-day Simple Moving Average at $2,498, the outlook appears positive. Successfully closing above $2,500 is vital for reinforcing this bullish trend, with significant resistance levels waiting at $2,532 and the psychologically important $2,550 level. Conversely, any failure to maintain support could lead to a drop towards lower levels, challenging recent lows and possibly instigating a downward trend.