Gold continues its record-breaking streak as Powell hints at potential rate cuts

Gold prices continued their upward momentum, reaching an all-time high on Thursday. This surge came after comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell fueled expectations for lower U.S. interest rates this year.

Gold often experiences upward pressure when interest rates are low, as it diminishes the opportunity cost associated with holding non-yielding bullion.

As of 1003 GMT, spot gold climbed 0.4% to $2,157.51 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures increased by 0.3% to $2,165.20.

Bullion reached a record high of $2,161.09 earlier in the session and was poised for its longest intraday winning streak since at least November 2021.

Powell indicated on Wednesday that rate cuts will „likely be appropriate“ later this year „if the economy evolves broadly as expected,“ especially as officials gain more confidence in the consistent deceleration of inflation. Powell is set to speak again on Thursday.

“The primary driver in this recent rally in gold is a continued decline in real yields, with inflation expectations continuing to cool, pushing buyers into gold from money market accounts and Treasuries,” said Arthur Parish, SP Angel analyst.

Powell’s remarks, combined with data released the same day reflecting softer labor market conditions, led to declines in U.S. Treasury yields and the dollar. This, in turn, bolstered demand for gold.

The near-term focus will be on the European Central Bank’s rate decision, scheduled for 1315 GMT. The central bank is anticipated to maintain interest rates unchanged at record highs.

Friday’s U.S. non-farm payrolls report for February is anticipated to offer more insight into potential U.S. rate cuts. Economists polled by Reuters expect the report to indicate that employers added 200,000 jobs during the month.

“A weaker-than-expected figure is likely to push gold closer to $2,200/oz in the spot market,” said Parish.

Spot silver remained steady at $24.16, while platinum rose by 0.9% to $915.60 per ounce. Meanwhile, palladium declined by 1.3% to $1,028.52 following a sharp increase in the last session.

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