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U.S. dollar's strength triggers a sell-off in gold
The gold (XAU) price plunged by more than 1.3% on Thursday as the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) moved sharply higher after a strong U.S. macro data release.
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Possible effects for traders
The Commerce Department's second estimate of Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reiterated that the economy grew at a very healthy 2.3% annualised rate in the last three months of 2024. This confirmation solidified the perception of a robust closing of the year, signalling sustained economic growth despite prevailing uncertainties. Consumer spending, which accounts for about 70% of GDP, surged impressively at 4.2% and demonstrated a resilient appetite for goods and services among households. This robust consumer activity underpinned the overall growth, suggesting a confident consumer base willing to spend. New orders for durable goods also grew by a substantial 3.1%, significantly surpassing the anticipated 2%. This unexpected surge signalled strong business investment and consumer confidence in future economic conditions.
At the same time, initial jobless claims came out higher than expected, potentially hinting at some emerging softness in the labour market. However, the market pretty much ignored the figures, focusing on the more positive aspects of the GDP and Durable Goods reports. 'We don't think the report signals significant labour market deterioration', says Oren Klachkin, an economist at Nationwide. He offered a reassuring perspective that the increase in jobless claims was likely an anomaly rather than a harbinger of a broader trend. Overall, the market viewed yesterday's report as very bullish for the greenback, with DXY surging above the 107.000 level, putting downward pressure on XAUUSD.
XAUUSD was falling during the Asian and early European trading sessions. Investors now focus on the U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index due at 1:30 p.m. UTC today. The market expects PCE to remain at 0.3%. 'Any significant deviation from the estimated PCE data could trigger a negative reaction, based on concerns that the Fed (Federal Reserve) is less likely to lower interest rates', said Bart Melek, head of commodity strategies at TD Securities. 'Spot gold may break support at $2,867 per ounce and fall towards $2,835 to $2,847 range', said Reuters analyst Wang Tao.
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