Fed Policy Expectations Support Metals
Gold continues to hold above the $3,000 psychological threshold, bolstered by expectations of potential rate cuts later this year. The Federal Reserve’s revised 2025 growth forecast and persistent inflation concerns have added uncertainty to its policy trajectory.
Although the Fed has projected two 25 basis point cuts in 2025, market participants are increasingly pricing in an earlier move, potentially in response to tariff-related economic headwinds. This has tempered US dollar gains and supported non-yielding assets like gold and silver.
Silver, more industrial in nature, remains sensitive to economic developments. Hopes of increased fiscal support in China and tentative geopolitical progress in Eastern Europe have also reduced safe-haven inflows, but improving global manufacturing sentiment continues to offer a base for silver prices.
Stronger Dollar, Mixed Sentiment Limit Upside
The US Dollar Index (DXY) holds near a three-week high, driven by stronger-than-expected US data. The S&P Global Composite PMI for March rose to 53.5 from 51.6, reinforcing confidence in US economic resilience.
However, uncertainty around trade policy and inflation’s persistence complicates the Fed’s ability to hold rates steady. This ambiguity has helped gold avoid a deeper pullback despite the dollar’s strength.
Key Data Ahead Could Drive Volatility
Investor attention now turns to upcoming US data, including March new home sales, the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index, and the Richmond Fed Manufacturing Index—all scheduled for release Tuesday.
Later this week, Friday’s Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index will be critical in shaping gold’s short-term outlook, especially if inflation deviates from expectations.
Additionally, scheduled remarks from FOMC officials may add to market volatility.