Gold Price Forecast: XAU/USD Eyes $2,650 as US CPI Data Looms

Gold (XAU/USD) extended its losing streak for the sixth consecutive day, dropping 0.37% to trade around $2,610 following the release


Gold (XAU/USD) extended its losing streak for the sixth consecutive day, dropping 0.37% to trade around $2,610 following the release of the Federal Reserve’s September Meeting Minutes.

The Minutes revealed that a “substantial majority” of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) favored a 50-basis-point (bps) rate cut, while some members preferred a more conservative 25 bps reduction. This uncertainty has led to increased market volatility and ongoing pressure on gold prices.

The CME FedWatch Tool indicates that the likelihood of a 25 bps rate cut in November dropped to 75.9% from 85.2% a day earlier, signaling shifting market sentiment. Additionally, US Treasury yields continued to climb, with the 10-year Treasury note reaching 4.06%, up 5.5 bps. This, coupled with a stronger US Dollar Index (DXY) at 102.90, its highest level since mid-August, weighed heavily on gold prices.

US CPI Report in Focus as Traders Eye Inflation Data

All eyes are now on the upcoming US Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which is forecasted to show a decline from 2.5% to 2.3% year-over-year (YoY). Monthly CPI is expected to come in at 0.1%, down from 0.2%. If the data aligns with expectations, it could signal a continuation of the Fed’s dovish stance, potentially providing some relief for gold.

Core CPI is anticipated to remain unchanged at 3.2% YoY. Any deviation from these estimates could either strengthen or weaken the case for future rate cuts, impacting gold prices significantly. Additionally, Initial Jobless Claims data for the week ending October 5 is projected to show 230K new claims, slightly higher than the previous reading of 225K.

Technical Analysis: Key Levels to Watch

Gold is currently holding above a key support level at $2,605, supported by an upward trendline on the 4-hour chart. As long as the price remains above this trendline, a potential bullish reversal could be in play. Immediate resistance is seen at $2,624, with the next target at $2,636, coinciding with the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA). Breaking above $2,636 could open the door to $2,652.

However, if the $2,605 support is breached, gold may face increased selling pressure, pushing prices down to $2,594 and potentially $2,573. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently at 40, indicating neutral sentiment but is approaching oversold territory, which could lead to a short-term rebound.

GOLD Price Chart - Source: Tradingview
GOLD Price Chart – Source: Tradingview

Key Insights:

  • FOMC Impact: The Fed’s Minutes reveal divided opinions on rate cuts, adding pressure on gold.

  • CPI Expectations: Upcoming US CPI data will be crucial in determining short-term direction.

  • Technical Outlook: $2,605 serves as key support; a break below could trigger further downside.

Overall, the upcoming economic data and the Fed’s stance will play a critical role in shaping gold’s trajectory. Traders should closely monitor the $2,605 support level and $2,624 resistance for potential breakout signals.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More
Arslan Butt
Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)
Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.

Related Articles

HFM

Doo Prime

XM

Best Forex Brokers