Gold edges higher after sharp selloff, Fed hike bets weigh

On Wednesday, gold prices saw a slight recovery following a significant 3% drop the previous day, though gains remained restrained. This rebound came amidst stronger-than-anticipated US inflation data, which reinforced the likelihood of a Federal Reserve interest rate increase in the upcoming month, which negatively impacted the precious metal's value.

Spot gold rose by 0.3% to $4,043.62 per ounce by 0303 GMT, after dropping nearly 3% to $4,017.21 on Tuesday. Gold futures for December delivery also increased by 0.5% to $4,051.10. Market analysts suggest that today's movement can be viewed as a technical correction following significant losses on Tuesday, with investors cashing in profits and awaiting the next significant market mover.

Higher US inflation and comments from the Federal Reserve officials about potential tightening measures have reignited expectations of a rate hike next month. The likelihood of a half-percentage point Federal Reserve rate increase in December climbed to 100% from 84% prior to the data release, as indicated by CME's FedWatch tool.

Despite its traditional reputation as an inflation hedge, gold's value decreases when interest rates rise due to the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets. Analysts note that while gold might benefit from positive developments in the Middle East, the near-term macroeconomic outlook for the metal appears unfavorable. Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman and Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson reiterated that curbing inflation is the central bank's primary objective, with further rate hikes anticipated by the Federal Reserve.

Silver and palladium also experienced gains, rising by 1.7% to $52.38 per ounce and 1.3% to $1,038.38 per ounce, respectively.