The Resurgence of Gold: Investors Eye Rate Cuts and Key Price Levels

Key Takeaways

• Gold climbs to a two-week high as investors anticipate a Federal Reserve interest rate cut.
• Market participants are pricing in a 66% chance of a September rate cut according to the CME FedWatch Tool.
• Technical analysis suggests a potential gold price target of $2,862 with support around $2,080.

Gold has regained its luster as investors turn their attention to the precious metal following a recent surge to a two-week high. The renewed interest in gold comes amidst growing expectations that the Federal Reserve may implement interest rate cuts later this year, spurred by lackluster economic data.

Recent reports from the U.S. government have indicated a moderation in inflation and slowing retail sales, painting a picture of cooling economic activity. This has fueled speculation that the Fed’s policy of maintaining high interest rates to combat inflationary pressures may soon be adjusted.

Jim Wyckoff, senior market analyst at Kitco, noted, “The precious metals bulls are more confident late this week, following the weaker U.S. retail sales report earlier this week.”

According to the CME FedWatch Tool, which analyzes fed funds futures trading data, market participants are currently pricing in a 66% probability of a rate cut in September. The anticipation of lower interest rates has historically been viewed as a positive catalyst for gold prices.

Lower interest rates tend to weaken the value of the U.S. dollar, making gold more affordable for foreign buyers and reducing the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold compared to fixed-income securities.

Technical Analysis and Price Levels

Looking at the weekly chart, gold’s price broke out from a year-long trading range earlier this year. After an initial uptrend, the price has consolidated within a rectangle pattern since mid-April, signaling a potential pause before another upward move.

If the gold price breaks above the top trendline of the rectangle pattern to reach a new record high, investors can use the measuring principle to project a price target. By adding the distance of the previous move to the breakout point, a potential target of $2,862 is calculated. Conversely, a breakdown from the rectangle could find support around $2,080 based on prior trading range levels.

It is important to note that the comments, opinions, and analyses expressed are for informational purposes only. Investors should conduct their own research and consult with financial advisors before making any investment decisions.

As of the date of writing, the author does not hold any positions in the securities mentioned.

For more information and original source, please visit Investopedia.