Gold rose near $2,640 an ounce on Wednesday (11/27) as investors continued to digest the latest FOMC minutes while awaiting key US data for further insights into the Federal Reserve's monetary policy outlook. While officials expressed confidence in easing inflation and labor market strength, the minutes also expressed a cautious approach to further rate cuts, signaling a preference for gradual adjustments. Most investors still expect a 25bps rate cut in December, with a probability of around 63%, which would reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-interest-bearing bullion. Traders...
Oil prices fell slightly in Asian trade on Wednesday, extending recent losses after Israel agreed to a two-month deal. Brent crude futures expiring in January fell 0.2% to $72.70 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell 0.2% to $68.30 a barrel by 8:47 p.m. ET (01:47 GMT). Crude losses were also tempered by a Reuters report that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) are considering a further delay in plans to increase output. The cartel meets on Dec. 1. US oil inventories unexpectedly fall – API. Data from the American Petroleum...
The dollar index held steady around 106.9 on Wednesday as investors prepared for the release of the latest US PCE price index report, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure. Market participants are also looking ahead to other key data, including initial jobless claims, a second reading of GDP, and figures on personal income and spending. Minutes from the FOMC's November meeting revealed that officials were optimistic about easing inflation and the strength of the labor market, which supports the case for further rate cuts. However, they indicated a preference for gradual...