Silver prices are poised at a four-week low as investors await the Federal Reserve’s policy update, with market sentiment swayed by the potential impact of a hawkish or less-hawkish stance on silver’s direction.
At 12:15 GMT, XAG/USD is trading $26.51, up $0.21 or +0.82%.
The recent downturn in silver prices, influenced by a stronger U.S. dollar and higher Treasury yields, reflects a correction from previous highs. This correction may signal undervalued conditions, enticing some investors to re-enter the market in anticipation of stabilization or modest price increases.
Attention is closely focused on the Fed’s forthcoming decision on interest rates, with Chair Jerome Powell expected to maintain rates steady between 5.25% to 5.5%. However, recent data revealing an unexpected rise in labor costs suggests persistent inflationary pressures in the U.S. economy, contradicting earlier projections of easing. Such circumstances could diminish silver’s appeal as a hedge against inflation, especially if high interest rates offer more attractive returns on yield-based assets.
Moreover, solid labor market figures lessen the likelihood of the Fed reducing rates this year, further dampening silver’s appeal. Globally, China’s market closures for the Labor Day holiday are moderating trading volumes, while the dollar’s ascent to this year’s highest levels and anticipation of the Fed’s policy direction are pivotal factors in market sentiment.
While Treasury yields have stabilized near recent highs, reflecting adjusted expectations regarding U.S. monetary policy, the short-term outlook for silver remains cautiously bearish. Despite potential technical support for price recovery, the prevailing monetary policy environment and a robust dollar are likely to curtail significant gains in the silver market.
Traders are advised to prepare for potential market reactions to the Fed’s forthcoming statements and closely monitor subsequent economic data releases. These factors could influence rate expectations and silver’s attractiveness as a financial safe haven amidst evolving market conditions.
James Hyerczyk is a U.S. based seasoned technical analyst and educator with over 40 years of experience in market analysis and trading, specializing in chart patterns and price movement. He is the author of two books on technical analysis and has a background in both futures and stock markets.