The Australian dollar depreciated past $0.65 on Monday, extending losses from the previous week, as market sentiment remained subdued ahead of this week's release of the RBA meeting minutes and a speech by Governor Michele Bullock. This followed the RBA's unexpected decision to leave its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 3.85%, contrary to widespread expectations of a 25 bps cut. Nevertheless, economists anticipate a gradual shift toward monetary easing later this year, with current forecasts indicating that the cash rate could decline to around 3.1% by early 2026, supported by a stable...
Gold prices were little changed on Monday as investors monitored developments in U.S. trade talks and awaited potential market-moving catalysts, including the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy meeting scheduled for next week. Spot gold held its ground at $3,352.19 per ounce, as of 0250 GMT. U.S. gold futures were steady at $3,358.70. "Dollar has made a subdued start to the week, which has left the door open for gold to post gains early doors with tariff deadlines looming large," KCM Trade Chief Market Analyst Tim Waterer said. "The closer we move towards the key August 1 deadline without any...
Oil prices were little changed on Monday as traders assess the impact of new European sanctions on Russian oil supplies while they also worry about tariffs possibly weakening fuel demand as Middle East producers are raising output. Brent crude futures climbed 6 cents to $69.34 a barrel by 0344 GMT after settling 0.35% lower on Friday. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $67.51 a barrel, up 17 cents, following a 0.30% decline in the previous session. The European Union approved on Friday the 18th package of sanctions against Russia over the conflict in Ukraine, which also targeted...