Gold prices fell on Wednesday as expectations grew that the U.S. Federal Reserve could raise interest rates, while escalating tensions in the Middle East and rising oil prices added to concerns about higher inflation.
Spot gold fell 0.1% to US$4,349.44 an ounce by 12:40 a.m. GMT, while U.S. gold futures for December delivery declined 1% to US$4,393.30 an ounce.
Markets are closely watching upcoming U.S. inflation data, with the Producer Price Index (PPI) due Thursday, followed by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) on Friday. The figures could have a significant impact on investors’ expectations for the future path of U.S. interest rates.
Middle East tensions weigh on markets
Gold’s decline came as tensions in the Middle East intensified, with military operations and retaliatory attacks expanding across the region. The developments have raised fresh concerns about energy supplies and oil prices.
Brent crude prices rose for a fourth consecutive session, amid concerns that persistently higher oil prices could increase energy costs and add to inflationary pressures across the global economy.
Higher interest rates weigh on gold
According to market expectations, traders are increasingly betting that the U.S. Federal Reserve will raise interest rates at its next monetary policy meeting.
Gold typically comes under pressure when interest rates rise because the precious metal does not generate interest or other income for investors. Higher rates can therefore make income-generating assets more attractive compared with gold.
Although gold is widely viewed as a hedge against inflation, higher interest rates and stronger returns on other assets can reduce demand for the precious metal.
Bank of England rate outlook
In the United Kingdom, a Reuters poll showed that most economists expect the Bank of England to keep its benchmark interest rate at 3.75% through the end of the year and at least until mid-2027.
Economists said current inflation levels do not appear strong enough to convince a majority of policymakers to support higher borrowing costs.
Other precious metals
Other precious metals posted mixed moves:
- Silver: down 0.1% to US$65.84 an ounce.
- Platinum: up 0.6% to US$1,824.53 an ounce.
- Palladium: down 0.2% to US$1,345.83 an ounce.
Going forward, gold prices are expected to remain particularly sensitive to U.S. inflation data, oil prices, central-bank interest-rate decisions and developments in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
