Gold Holds Steady Near Record Highs Amid Trade Tensions and Fed Rate Cut Bets
Gold price (XAU/USD) continues to consolidate near its all-time highs, supported by rising trade tensions, geopolitical risks, and growing expectations of multiple interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2025. Despite a subdued start to the week, the precious metal remains well bid due to safe-haven demand, while a weaker US Dollar further underpins the bullish outlook. Although China’s recent economic stimulus has improved global risk sentiment and capped immediate gains, the overall trend remains in favor of the bulls. Market participants now await the upcoming FOMC decision for fresh direction, with the broader setup suggesting potential for further upside momentum. KEY LOOKOUTS • All eyes are on the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting, which is expected to provide clarity on interest rate cuts and drive the next major move in XAU/USD • Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and rising trade war fears continue to fuel safe-haven demand for gold, keeping it near record highs. • A weaker US Dollar, hovering near multi-month lows, remains a supportive factor for gold prices. Any shift in USD sentiment could influence gold’s direction. • Key support lies near $2,956 and $2,930–2,928 zones, while a sustained move above $3,000 could open doors for the next bullish leg in gold’s uptrend. As gold prices hover near record highs, market participants are closely watching several key factors that could influence the next move in XAU/USD. The upcoming Federal Reserve policy decision remains a critical event, with expectations of multiple rate cuts in 2025 supporting the bullish outlook for the non-yielding metal. At the same time, heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns over trade conflicts continue to boost safe-haven demand. Additionally, the US Dollar’s weakness near multi-month lows lends further support to gold prices. On the technical front, crucial support zones around $2,956 and $2,930–2,928 are in focus, while a clear break above the psychological $3,000 level could trigger a fresh bullish rally. Gold price remains well-supported near record highs amid Fed rate cut expectations, trade tensions, and geopolitical risks. A weaker US Dollar adds to the bullish momentum, while key technical levels around $2,956 and $2,930–2,928 remain crucial for near-term direction. All eyes now turn to the upcoming FOMC decision for fresh cues. • Gold consolidates near all-time highs, staying just below the $3,000 psychological mark. • Safe-haven demand rises amid escalating trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainties. • Fed rate cut expectations for 2025 continue to support the bullish outlook for XAU/USD. • US Dollar remains weak, hovering near multi-month lows, further boosting gold prices. • China’s economic stimulus lifts market sentiment, capping immediate gains in gold. • Technical support levels at $2,956 and $2,930–2,928 are key zones to watch for any pullback. • The upcoming FOMC meeting is the most awaited event, likely to provide fresh direction for gold. Gold continues to hold its ground near record highs, driven by growing global uncertainties and strong safe-haven demand. Rising trade tensions and geopolitical conflicts, including escalating situations in the Middle East and concerns over global economic stability, have reinforced gold’s appeal as a reliable store of value. Additionally, the market sentiment is being shaped by expectations that the Federal Reserve will begin cutting interest rates multiple times in 2025, as signs of economic slowdown and softer inflation data emerge in the U.S. XAU/USD Daily Price Chart Chart Source: TradingView Adding to the supportive environment for gold, the U.S. Dollar remains under pressure amid these rate cut expectations, making the precious metal more attractive for investors holding other currencies. Meanwhile, China’s recent economic stimulus efforts, including initiatives to boost domestic consumption and support the housing sector, have helped improve market confidence globally. However, gold continues to benefit from its traditional role as a safe haven amid global instability, keeping it in focus for investors seeking long-term security. TECHNICAL ANALYSIS Gold remains in a strong bullish trend, having recently broken above key resistance levels and now consolidating near its all-time highs. The overall market structure suggests continued upward momentum, supported by strong buying interest on any dips. While the Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicates overbought conditions, signaling a possibility of short-term consolidation, the broader chart pattern still favors the bulls. Key support zones around $2,956 and $2,930–2,928 could act as potential entry points for buyers, while a sustained move above the $3,000 psychological mark may open the door for further upside in the coming sessions. FORECAST Gold prices are likely to remain on an upward trajectory if current macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions persist. Expectations of multiple interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2025, combined with ongoing trade tensions and global uncertainties, could continue to fuel safe-haven demand. A sustained weak US Dollar would further support this bullish outlook, potentially pushing gold beyond the $3,000 psychological mark. If risk sentiment weakens and investors seek safety, gold could attract more inflows, paving the way for new record highs in the coming months. On the flip side, any signs of easing geopolitical tensions or a shift in the Federal Reserve’s tone toward a more hawkish stance could limit gold’s gains or even trigger a pullback. Additionally, stronger-than-expected US economic data or a rebound in the US Dollar may reduce the appeal of the non-yielding metal. If global markets regain stability and risk appetite improves, investors might shift focus away from safe-haven assets like gold, leading to a moderate decline in prices from current elevated levels.