Gold lingers near seven-week low ahead of US economic data

Gold prices have remained near a seven-week low, with investors awaiting key US economic data, as concerns grow over the Federal Reserve potentially maintaining higher interest rates for an extended period. Spot gold settled at $4,124.57 per ounce, barely changing from the previous trading session after reaching its lowest level since August 5. US gold futures declined 0.3% to $4,156.70.

Christopher Tahir, a senior market strategist at Exness, noted that geopolitical developments would continue to be vital for gold. Elevated oil prices, due to ongoing Middle East tensions, could stoke inflation by raising costs across the economy. This may prompt central banks to raise interest rates, which could negatively impact gold, typically viewed as an inflation hedge, as investors opt for assets that generate returns.

Currently, there is a 70.3% probability of a Federal Reserve rate hike in October, as indicated by the CME’s FedWatch Tool. Fed Governor Lisa Cook suggested that inflationary pressures may persist due to AI-related demand and higher oil prices, although she did not explicitly state that additional rate hikes are necessary.

Investors are eagerly anticipating a series of US economic data releases this week, including job openings, ADP employment, PCE figures, and nonfarm payrolls, to gain further insight into monetary policy. Persistent price pressures alongside robust economic activity could strengthen expectations that central banks need to maintain a restrictive stance, keeping yields high and leaving gold susceptible to additional declines.