Iran Tensions Weaken Gold Prices While Strengthening the Dollar
Rüzgar Ersoy
The recent military movements between Iran and the US have increased oil prices and strengthened the dollar, putting pressure on gold prices. Investors are concerned about high inflation and interest rates. Gold did not receive support from the Fed's June meeting minutes. The minutes showed that policymakers are divided on interest rate hikes. Spot gold fell 0.2% to $4,070.81 per ounce. Gold futures fell 0.1% to $4,079.47. As of 05:46, these levels were seen. Gold has lost three days in a row. The increase in US-Iran military activities has increased oil prices. This has increased energy-related inflation concerns. The effects on interest rates have also worried investors. The dollar has benefited from high inflation fears. The dollar index is trading near its 13-month high in June. ANZ analysts said in a note: "Any rebound in energy prices will strengthen expectations. The Fed may keep interest rates higher for longer to fight persistent inflation." The US launched a series of attacks on Iran this week. President Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire with the country had ended. The recent hostilities stemmed from Iran's attack on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Other precious metals were also sluggish on Thursday. They followed gold's decline in recent sessions. Spot silver fell 0.5% to $58.0060. Spot platinum rose 0.5% to $1,594.0. The Fed's June meeting minutes were released on Wednesday. They were not as dovish as the markets feared. Policymakers are divided on the need for interest rate hikes this year. However, the minutes showed increasing concerns about persistent inflation. This trend could lead to interest rate hikes if price pressures do not show signs of cooling. US inflation has risen sharply since the start of the US-Iran war in February. Price increases are far above the Fed's annual target of 2%. Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh reiterated the bank's commitment to reaching its target in a recent speech. The commitment to achieving the target was emphasized. This article was created with the support of artificial intelligence, translated and reviewed by an editor. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions section.