Is gold hammering out a bottom

There is no doubt that the price of gold has been pressured tremendously in the past two months, and especially since early November when Donald Trump became the new US president-elect. Although many had projected that gold could see a significant boost in the event of his victory due to the uncertainty surrounding Trump, quite the opposite has happened. Gold has fallen precipitously on rising bond yields, a strengthening US dollar, and ever-increasing expectations of rising interest rates under the Federal Reserve. In addition, surprisingly buoyant equity markets that continue to hit new all-time highs have further decreased the safe-haven appeal of both gold and the Japanese yen.

As a result of these factors (higher interest rates, stronger dollar, lack of market volatility), gold has been pushed down relentlessly from its most recent peak around $1375 in July of this year. After having dropped down to a new 9-month low around $1170 late last week, the price of gold has tentatively slowed its sharp decline. The question now is whether gold has exhausted its slide for the time being or if the precious metal has further to fall before bottoming out.

While the conditions of higher expected interest rates, a robust US dollar, and a persistent Trump Rally, continue to place further pressure on gold, much of the impact of these factors has likely already been priced-in to the plunging metal. In addition, much of the post-election market moves have arguably been overdone, rooted largely in speculation over a future Trump Administration that is based solely on Trump’s campaign promises. Whatever economic policies actually materialize after Trump takes office remains very uncertain. And with uncertainty often comes increased demand for gold.

Aside from the dynamics surrounding President-elect Trump, other upcoming market risk factors are plentiful. For one, the OPEC meetings on Wednesday pose a serious threat to market stability if there is a failure to reach a satisfactory deal agreement. Also on the immediate horizon is the Italian Referendum on constitutional reform next Sunday. The outcome of this vote could potentially cause financial havoc in Italy and the rest of Europe, which could readily send investors back towards the perceived safety of gold.

From a technical perspective, the price of gold remains below key previous support around the $1200 psychological level. Any rise back above $1200 would clearly be a bullish signal indicating a potential bottoming for the precious metal. A strong rebound above $1200 could next target major resistance around $1250. To the downside, the noted $1170 low is also at a major 61.8% Fibonacci retracement of the bullish run in the first half of the year. Therefore, that level continues to stand as an important support area for gold. Any strong breakdown below that level would be a key bearish indication that could open the way for a further drop towards $1100 support.

The information on this web site is not targeted at the general public of any particular country. It is not intended for distribution to residents in any country where such distribution or use would contravene any local law or regulatory requirement. The information and opinions in this report are for general information use only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any currency or CFD contract. All opinions and information contained in this report are subject to change without notice. This report has been prepared without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any particular recipient. Any references to historical price movements or levels is informational based on our analysis and we do not represent or warranty that any such movements or levels are likely to reoccur in the future. While the information contained herein was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, author does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, nor does author assume any liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions.

Futures, Options on Futures, Foreign Exchange and other leveraged products involves significant risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Increasing leverage increases risk. Spot Gold and Silver contracts are not subject to regulation under the U.S. Commodity Exchange Act. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are not available for US residents. Products and services available depend on your location and the entity holding your account. Before deciding to trade forex, commodity futures, or digital assets, you should carefully consider your financial objectives, level of experience and risk appetite. Any opinions, news, research, analyses, prices or other information contained herein is intended as general information about the subject matter covered and is provided with the understanding that we do not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice. You should consult with appropriate counsel or other advisors on all investment, legal, or tax matters. References to FOREX.com or GAIN Capital refer to StoneX Group Inc. and its subsidiaries. Please read Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.

Please note that foreign exchange and other leveraged trading involves significant risk of loss. It is not suitable for all investors and you should make sure you understand the risks involved, seeking independent advice if necessary.

FOREX.com is a trading name of GAIN Global Markets Inc. which is authorized and regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority under the Securities Investment Business Law of the Cayman Islands (as revised) with License number 25033.

FOREX.com may, from time to time, offer payment processing services with respect to card deposits through StoneX Financial Ltd, Moor House First Floor, 120 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5ET.

GAIN Global Markets Inc. has its principal place of business at 30 Independence Blvd, Suite 300 (3rd floor), Warren, NJ 07059, USA., and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of StoneX Group Inc.