Gold prices dipped today, pressured by rising US Treasury yields and the continued strength of the US dollar, as investors weigh economic data and the Federal Reserve’s next move on interest rates.
Spot gold fell by 0.3%, trading at $1,925.70 per ounce, as the 10-year US Treasury yield climbed to its highest level in over a decade. Higher yields tend to diminish the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold, making the metal less attractive to investors. The US dollar index also gained, nearing its highest point in months, further adding to the downward pressure on gold.
Analysts point to robust US economic data and expectations that the Fed will hold rates higher for longer as key drivers behind the dollar’s rise and bond yield increases. Stronger-than-expected retail sales and employment figures have supported the case for the Fed to maintain a restrictive stance, raising concerns over gold’s immediate outlook.
As the market braces for next week’s Fed meeting, gold traders remain cautious, expecting continued volatility. With US inflation still elevated, the potential for further interest rate hikes remains on the table, which could further boost the dollar and weigh on precious metals.
In the near term, gold’s outlook hinges on the Fed’s policy path, the strength of the dollar, and the performance of the bond market. Without a significant shift in these factors, gold could face further downside.