The gold market continues to struggle to attract new bullish attention and could see renewed selling pressure as the U.S. housing market appears to be stabilizing.
Gold fell. Increasing inflation concerns amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could be reinforcing expectations of a more restrictive monetary-policy stance, Hola Prime said.
Spot gold prices were near steady and spot silver prices were firmer in late-afternoon U.S. trading Monday, as perceived safe-haven demand tied to renewed Middle East tensions was offset by firmer rate expectations after Friday's U.S. jobs report.
After Friday's breakdown, gold prices could have further to fall, but some analysts believe investors should ignore the noise and focus on the bigger picture.
The People's Bank of China (PBoC) increased its gold reserves by nearly 10 tonnes last month, its 19th consecutive month of bullion purchases, according to the latest government data.The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) announced on Sunday that China's official gold reserves rose by 320,000 troy ounces or 9.95 tonnes in May to a total of 74.96 million troy ounces or 2331.52 tonnes.
Spot gold prices are near steady and spot silver prices are higher in early U.S. trading Monday, as oil pulled back from overnight highs, U.S. equity futures recovered and traders looked ahead to Wednesday's May inflation report.
From everything investors are told, it makes no sense that gold GC00-0.37% would fall so much in the midst of the Iran war, which is now 100 days old.
Gold's slump has followed Friday's better-than-expected May U.S. employment report.
Gold and silver showed limited conviction as the Middle East truce held firm amid Iran-Israel tensions. Gold broke decisively under $4,500 with bearish channel structure while silver traded at $66.53.
Gold and silver investors aren't heading into the weekend with much to feel good about.
The latest Kitco News Weekly Gold Survey showed Wall Street overwhelmingly bearish on gold's near-term prospects, while Main Street grew more pessimistic after gold's week of weakness.
Inflation fears on multiple fronts have taken their toll on the gold market, with prices breaking below a critical long-term support level.