Are Gold and Silver Prices on the Decline Due to Diminishing Safe Haven Demand?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) Gold and silver prices have witnessed a decline for the second consecutive session on Tuesday, as investors evaluate mixed economic data from the United States and await signals regarding the policy direction of the US Federal Reserve.
On an intra-day basis, MCX gold for April futures fell by 0.56 percent, settling at Rs 1,53,889 per 10 grams. In a similar vein, MCX silver for March futures decreased by 1.18 percent to Rs 2,37,064 per kg.
Analysts suggest that investors are uncertain whether softer inflation figures will lead to a more lenient monetary policy or if robust labor market data will sustain higher rates for an extended period.
The dollar index climbed by 0.21 percent to 97.12, reflecting the moderation in the US CPI (Consumer Price Index) observed in January. A stronger dollar rendered dollar-denominated bullion more costly for holders of other currencies.
In the international markets, spot gold fell below the $5,000 threshold, trading at $4,992 per ounce, while spot silver experienced a nearly 3 percent decline. The drop in prices was attributed to US consumer prices in January rising less than anticipated, despite job growth exceeding expectations, thereby complicating the outlook for imminent rate reductions.
According to analysts, COMEX Gold is currently trading within the $4,850–$5,100 range following a significant correction from recent peaks above the $5,500–$5,600 mark.
A reduction in geopolitical tensions has also lessened the demand for gold as an Iranian diplomat stated that Iran is pursuing a nuclear agreement with the United States that could yield mutual economic advantages.
“Gold has support levels at Rs 1,45,000 and Rs 1,50,000, with resistance at Rs 1,60,800 and Rs 1,65,000. For MCX silver, support is noted at Rs 2,25,000 and Rs 2,60,000, while resistance stands at Rs 3,00,000 and Rs 3,25,000,” an analyst commented.
The overarching trend in precious metals remains positive due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, significant central bank purchasing, and investors moving away from sovereign bonds and currencies.
Investors remain alert for indications regarding global liquidity conditions, movements in the US dollar, bond yields, advancements in US-Iran discussions, and ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
aar/na