Gold lacklustre as higher-for-longer rate outlook weighs on sentiment

Gold prices were subdued on Wednesday as investors weighed the prospect of major central banks keeping interest rates elevated for longer in their efforts to curb persistent inflation.

FUNDAMENTALS

Spot gold was little changed at $4,356.92 per ounce, as of 0040 GMT. US gold futures for December delivery were up 0.4% at $4,394.90.

Boston Federal Reserve President Susan Collins wrote that she supported the US central bank's decision last week to raise interest rates in the face of risks that future inflation will be above the 2% target.


The Fed last week lifted its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 3.75%-4.00% and signalled another increase could come before year-end. The Bank of Japan and the European Central Bank have also raised rates recently.

Oil prices are becoming an increasingly important indicator for ECB policymakers in setting interest rates but other factors also play a crucial role, Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel said on Tuesday.

While bullion is often seen as a safeguard against inflation, its appeal tends to wane when elevated rates boost returns on interest-bearing investments.

US President Donald Trump warned that he could annihilate Iran if there is no deal to end the war, but also suggested an agreement could come soon amid a diplomatic push at the United Nations.

Among other metals, spot silver rose 0.4% to $67.37 per ounce, platinum gained 0.3% to $1,837.80 and palladium firmed 0.3% at $1,311.40.

DATA/EVENTS (GMT)

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