Key Points:
- Gold dropped by 0.2%, trading at $2,415.61 per ounce; futures fell 0.3% to $2,418.75 per ounce.
- A steady US dollar, reduced demand for gold as a haven, and geopolitical stability have influenced metal prices.
On Wednesday, gold prices experienced a significant dip during Asian trade, retreating further from recent record highs. The primary cause of this decline was heightened anxiety over high US interest rates. Spot gold decreased by 0.2%, trading at $2,415.61 per ounce. Similarly, gold futures set to expire in June dropped by 0.3%, settling at $2,418.75 per ounce. This fall is notable after the $2,450.06 peak, highlighting the metal’s volatility due to macroeconomic factors.
Copper Retreats from Record Highs, Speculation Cools
The industrial metals market also saw notable movements, particularly with copper prices pulling back further from their recent record highs. This shift was attributed to a cooling speculative frenzy that had previously driven prices up. Investors are now awaiting additional cues regarding the physical supply and overall demand for copper, which are critical factors influencing its price.
Steady US Dollar and Geopolitics Impact on Gold Prices
Several key factors have influenced recent movements in metal prices. The steady US dollar has weighed on metal prices, exerting downward pressure. Furthermore, the demand for gold as a haven asset has cooled, largely due to a lack of escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. A notable event contributing to this sentiment was the tragic death of the Iranian President in a helicopter crash, which did not lead to further instability in the region as feared.
Fed Minutes Anticipated Amid Rate Cut Speculations
Traders anticipate the Federal Reserve’s late-April meeting minutes release, scheduled for later on Wednesday. Previously, the Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady, and Chair Jerome Powell indicated the possibility of rate cuts in 2024. Currently, traders are keenly waiting for cues from Fed officials regarding rate cuts and inflation. Fed officials have emphasised the need for more confidence in reducing inflation before considering rate trims, which have supported the US dollar while putting pressure on high-risk and non-yielding assets.
Gold Prices Hit by High US Interest Rates
High US interest rates have had a pronounced impact on gold prices. These high rates increase the opportunity cost of investing in gold, as investors could earn higher returns from interest-bearing assets. Earlier in the week, increased demand for gold as a haven had pushed prices to record highs. However, the lack of worsening geopolitical conditions in the Middle East left gold vulnerable to pressures from rising interest rates, leading to its recent decline.
