Gold Price Steady at $2,638: Key Levels to Watch Ahead of U.S. Data

Gold prices hovered at $2,638 on Tuesday, reflecting cautious investor sentiment ahead of significant U.S. economic data releases.

These upcoming reports, including the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), ADP employment figures, and Friday’s nonfarm payrolls, are likely to shed light on the Federal Reserve’s next policy moves.

Fed rate expectations are steering market dynamics. The likelihood of a 25-basis-point cut at the December 17-18 meeting has risen to 75%, driven by dovish remarks from Fed Governor Christopher Waller and New York Fed President John Williams. Waller’s comments, highlighting progress toward a 2% inflation target, reinforced market optimism. However, uncertainty about further easing measures in 2025 keeps traders vigilant.

Gold’s historical resilience during periods of low interest rates and geopolitical turmoil remains a focal point. With global tensions persisting, the precious metal continues to attract safe-haven demand.

 

XAU/USD

Key Technical Levels for Gold Traders

Gold’s technical outlook shows the metal consolidating near its 50-EMA at $2,643. This indicator is pivotal for determining near-term momentum.

  • Resistance Levels: Immediate resistance is seen at $2,665, followed by $2,684. The next significant barrier lies at $2,710, where selling pressure is expected to intensify.

  • Support Levels: On the downside, $2,622 serves as the first line of defense. If breached, further declines toward $2,605 and $2,585 could materialize.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 49 signals a neutral stance, with a slight bearish tilt. Traders should closely monitor price action near $2,622 for potential downside triggers or above $2,665 for a bullish breakout.

Fed Policy and Geopolitics: Driving Forces for Gold

Gold thrives in low-interest-rate environments, and the Fed’s potential shift toward a neutral stance in 2025 could bolster demand for the metal. Meanwhile, ongoing geopolitical unrest, such as the Israeli military’s recent targeting of Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, underscores gold’s role as a hedge against uncertainty.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gold is trading near $2,638, with the 50-EMA acting as a pivot point.

  • Critical resistance levels include $2,665 and $2,684, while immediate support rests at $2,622.

  • Upcoming U.S. economic data will heavily influence Fed rate cut expectations and, consequently, gold’s trajectory.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More
Arslan Butt
Index & Commodity Analyst
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.
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