Gold Prices Inch Up in Asian Trading Amid Interest Rate Speculation: Eyes on U.S. Inflation Data
Gold prices inched higher in Asian trading on Tuesday, showing a slight recovery from steep losses seen in the previous session. The market’s attention remained fixed on the imminent release of U.S. inflation data, which would offer further insights into the trajectory of interest rates.
Although gold showed some strength last week, it remained significantly below the record highs reached in April. Traders continued to favor the dollar amid concerns about the likelihood of sustained high interest rates in the United States.
Spot gold increased by 0.3% to $2,343.60 per ounce, while gold futures expiring in June also rose by 0.3% to $2,349.05 per ounce as of 00:22 ET (04:22 GMT).
Waiting for PPI and CPI Inflation Data for Further Rate Insights
The U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) data is scheduled for release later on Tuesday, with the more closely monitored Consumer Price Index (CPI) reading expected on Wednesday.
Both the Producer Price Index (PPI) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) readings are anticipated to influence the trajectory of U.S. interest rates. Following elevated inflation figures in the first quarter, which led to a reduction in market expectations for interest rate cuts this year, these upcoming data releases are eagerly awaited for further insights.
The trade dynamics suggested potential challenges for gold, but the precious metal found support from rising safe-haven demand amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. However, signs of de-escalation, particularly between Iran and Israel, exposed gold to pressures stemming from interest rate considerations.
Gold tends to suffer under high-for-longer rates since they elevate the opportunity cost of holding the precious metal.
On Tuesday, other precious metals also made gains. Platinum futures inched up by 0.1% to reach $1,011.05 an ounce, while silver futures climbed by 0.9% to $28.688 an ounce.
Copper Hits Two-Year Highs Amid China Stimulus Optimism, Easing Property Concerns
On Tuesday, copper prices surged to two-month highs as traders reacted positively to signals from China about a massive, 1 trillion yuan ($138 billion) bond issuance.
Chinese authorities announced plans to commence issuing bonds, with maturities ranging from 20 to 40 years, starting this week. The issuance, totaling 1 trillion yuan ($138 billion), is primarily intended to bolster infrastructure spending and support economic recovery efforts in the country.
The prospect of increased infrastructure spending in China contributed to a more positive outlook for copper demand. Three-month copper futures on the London Metal Exchange climbed 0.2% to $10,227.0 a ton, while one-month copper futures advanced 0.5% to $4.7940 a pound. Both contracts reached their highest levels since April 2022.
The announcement of the Chinese bond issuance largely countered negative signals from China’s property market, where another major developer defaulted on its bond payments.
Risk Warning: CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76.87% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
