GOLD prices hit more than one-month highs on Thursday (Jan 16) in early Asian hours after data showed US core inflation rose less than expected in December, raising hopes that the Federal Reserve could ease interest rates further.
Spot gold was flat at US$2,695.84 per ounce, as at 0051 GMT, after hitting its highest since Dec 12 earlier in the session. US gold futures gained 0.2 per cent to US$2,723.80.
Supporting bullion, the US Treasury yields fell and the US dollar pared some losses against major peers on Wednesday but stayed weaker.
Expectations for more Fed rate cuts this year increased following the CPI data, and odds for an at least 25 basis point cut at the June Fed meeting.
The Fed is expected to hold its benchmark rate steady in the current 4.25 to 4.5 per cent range at its next policy meeting on Jan 28 to 29.
Concerns linger about potential tariffs from president-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration that could further stoke inflation.
The central bank officials said data released on Wednesday showed US inflation was continuing to ease even as they noted heightened uncertainty in the coming months, as they await a first glimpse of the incoming Trump administration’s policies.
On the geopolitical front, Hamas and Israel reached a deal for a ceasefire in Gaza that mediators said would take effect on Sunday and include a release of hostages held there during 15 months of bloodshed that devastated the Palestinian enclave and inflamed the Middle East.
Spot silver shed 0.3 per cent to US$30.57 per ounce and palladium steadied at US$961.45. Platinum added 0.2 per cent to US$940.45. REUTERS
Share with us your feedback on BT’s products and services
