The gold price (XAU/USD) is facing selling pressure following slower-than-expected declines in the US Retail Sales data for October and a steep drop in the US monthly headline Producer Price Index (PPI) due to falling gasoline prices. Despite these pressures, the overall demand for gold remains positive as easing price pressures in the US economy reduce expectations of further policy-tightening by the Federal Reserve.
The soft US inflation report for October, particularly the slow growth in headline inflation, suggests that current interest rates set by the Fed are sufficient to address inflation concerns. The US Dollar and bond yields are broadly down as the soft Consumer Price Index (CPI) boosts confidence among investors in the possibility of early rate cuts by the Fed.
The latest inflation figures have shifted sentiment towards keeping interest rates unchanged, with hopes that discussions about cutting interest rates may emerge. Federal Reserve officials, including Chairman Jerome Powell and Richmond Federal Reserve Bank President Thomas Barkin, acknowledge the progress on inflation but express concerns about the need for further actions to curb demand and inflation.
The decline in US Retail Sales is attributed to lower demand for automobiles, impacted by higher interest rates affecting household costs. Additionally, the US PPI report for October shows a faster decline, primarily due to falling gasoline prices.
Despite these economic dynamics, gains in gold may be limited due to a risk-on mood and easing tensions in the Middle East. Technically, the gold price has fallen to near $1,960.00 after failing to sustain levels above $1,970.00. However, the precious metal has found support near the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), indicating a broader bullish sentiment.