Gold futures demonstrated an upward trend on Tuesday (August 22), propelled by a deceleration in US Treasury yields. All eyes are now on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s upcoming speech at the annual Jackson Hole gathering, where analysts and investors will dissect his remarks for insights into the Fed’s stance on interest rates.
The price of gold futures experienced a $3.00 uptick, translating to a 0.16% increase, ultimately closing at $1,926.00 per ounce. Similarly, silver futures saw a rise of 11.00 cents, a 0.47% gain, concluding the session at $23.45 per ounce. Platinum futures exhibited a robust growth of $12.00, equivalent to a 1.31% surge, to settle at $925.50 per ounce. Palladium futures were no exception to the positive momentum, climbing by $25.70, or 2.1%, reaching a closing price of $1,264.80 per ounce.
The rise of gold’s value was underpinned by the decline in the yield of the 10-year US Treasury note, which fell to 4.338% after briefly touching 4.34%. This drop in yield marked a significant shift, considering it had reached its highest point in 16 years, specifically since 2007, during the previous Monday.
Market participants are eagerly awaiting Powell’s address at the Jackson Hole symposium, scheduled for Friday, August 25. His insights will be closely scrutinized to glean indications about the Federal Reserve’s trajectory concerning interest rates.
Examining the recent statements from Fed officials, Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin emphasized the Fed’s need to remain open to the potential scenario of a more rapidly growing US economy, rather than a decelerating one. This stance underscores the central bank’s commitment to tackling inflation.
Barkin noted, “The July retail sales exceeded expectations, coupled with a rebound in the consumer confidence index. This signifies a distinct acceleration compared to the preceding 3-4 months. Should persistent high inflation continue without signs of abating, it would provide grounds for a more stringent monetary policy approach, involving interest rate hikes.”
As Powell’s speech draws near, the financial landscape remains poised for potential shifts, with the market keenly attuned to his words for clues about the direction of interest rates set forth by the Federal Reserve.
The Spot Market is Open
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
| Metals Updated at | USD Bid/Ask | Ounce Change | Low/High |
| Gold 09.30 | 1,901.40 1,902.40 | 4.00 +0.21% | 1,897.10 1,903.50 |
| Silver 09.30 | 23.51 23,61 | +0.11 +0.47% | 23.39 23.61 |
| Platinum 09.30 | 927.00 937.00 | +5.00 +0.54% | 922.00 937.00 |
| Palladium 09.30 | 1,237.00 1,297.00 | +9.00 +0.37% | 1,228.00 1,300.00 |
| Rhodium 05.00 | 3,400.00 4,600.00 | 0.00 0.00% | 3,400.00 4,600.00 |