Gold drops over 1% as oil rally reinforces higher-for-longer rate outlook

Gold prices plummeted over 1% to $4,085.29 per ounce on Thursday, as surging oil prices fueled inflation worries and reinforced the belief that interest rates may remain higher for an extended period. The drop in gold prices marked its lowest level since October 14. According to Kelvin Wong, a senior market analyst at OANDA, if oil prices continue to rise, inflation expectations could increase, which in turn would raise the likelihood of higher interest rates over the long term and negatively impact gold.

Despite persistent inflation, primarily driven by high energy prices, Fed policymakers are currently expected to maintain a patient stance. Traders gauge a 15% chance of a rate hike at the Federal Reserve's October 27-28 meeting, but anticipate a 91% probability of an increase in December. Investors are waiting for the release of the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data, a crucial indicator closely monitored by the central bank as it targets a 2% inflation rate.

The upcoming Federal Reserve meeting is eagerly anticipated by traders for any clues about the policy outlook. Other precious metals also experienced declines, with spot silver falling 3.3% to $56.05, platinum dropping 2.2% to $1,593.05, and palladium decreasing 2.7% to $1,057.32.