Gold rises on weaker dollar as investors eye developments

Gold prices firmed on Monday, bolstered by a weaker US dollar, while investors sought clarity on trade developments ahead of an August 1 US tariff deadline.

Spot gold was up 0.5 per cent at $3,365.49 per ounce by 0751 GMT. US gold futures rose 0.5 per cent to $3,373.20.

“The modest support comes from a weaker US dollar. With the tariff August 1 deadline coming closer, the market focus will be if trade deals are announced, or tariffs are implemented,” said UBS commodity analyst Giovanni Staunovo.

The dollar eased 0.2 per cent against a basket of other major currencies, making gold less expensive for their holders.

United States Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said on Sunday he was confident the United States can secure a trade deal with the European Union, but August 1 is a hard deadline for tariffs to kick in.

Gold, often considered a safe-haven asset during economic uncertainty, tends to do well in a low interest rate environment.

The US Federal Reserve’s next policy meeting is scheduled for July 29-30, following its decision to hold rates steady last month.

“Elevated inflation expectations and strong economic data are weighing on expectations around the number of Fed rate cuts this year. Despite this, the buy-on-dip strategy remains in place, protecting downside risks for gold prices,” ANZ analysts said in a note. Last week, Fed Governor Christopher Waller said he still believes that the US central bank should cut rates next week.

Reuters