Gold futures closed higher on Wednesday, December 4, as recent U.S. employment data revealed slower-than-expected private payroll growth in November.
This development has increased the likelihood of an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. February gold futures rose 0.31% to $2,676.20 per troy ounce on the Comex division of the New York Mercantile Exchange.
The latest economic figures from the United States have bolstered the possibility of a rate cut by the Fed in December. This prospect tends to fuel investor enthusiasm for the precious metal, which does not yield interest.
Market participants are now eagerly awaiting comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell later today and the U.S. payroll report on Friday. The precious metal also gained value due to new developments in global geopolitical tensions.
In South Korea, the Democratic Party plans to submit a motion to impeach President Yoon Seok Yeol to the National Assembly plenary session on Thursday.
Gold Shines Amidst Economic Shifts and Global Tensions. (Photo Internet reproduction)
They aim to vote on it Friday or Saturday, following the declaration of martial law in the country on Tuesday. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, Hamas has threatened to “neutralize” hostages if Israel launches a rescue operation.
Gold Price Forecast
Short-term gold forecasts remain modestly bearish amid a stronger dollar and weakening yuan. However, long-term trends continue to point upward, according to Fawad Razaqzada of StoneX.
Investors are waiting for a new buy signal but likely believe a more significant correction is necessary before the metal becomes attractive again. The nearest resistance for gold is set at $2,800 per troy ounce, according to RHB Retail Research.
Looking further ahead, Bank of America (BofA) predicts the precious metal will reach $3,000 per troy ounce by 2025. These projections highlight the ongoing appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset in uncertain times.
As economic indicators fluctuate and geopolitical tensions persist, gold continues to play a crucial role in investors’ portfolios. Its performance reflects the delicate balance between monetary policy expectations and global risk factors.
The coming days will be critical as market participants digest new economic data and central bank communications. These factors will likely shape the trajectory of gold prices in the near term and beyond.
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