Gold prices extended their pullback Tuesday as investors positioned ahead of critical U.S. economic reports and fresh signals from the Federal Reserve. Thin trading volumes—due to market holidays in both China and the United States—added to subdued momentum, while a modest rebound in the U.S. dollar further weighed on precious metals.
Spot gold fell 0.3% to $4,978.39 per ounce, while April gold futures slipped 0.3% to $4,996.69 per ounce as of 19:10 ET (00:10 GMT). The dollar’s strength makes gold more expensive for foreign buyers, often dampening demand.
Silver mirrored gold’s decline. Spot silver dropped 0.9% to $76.0400 per ounce. In contrast, platinum edged higher, gaining 0.5% to $2,030.61 per ounce.
Despite the pullback, safe-haven demand has not disappeared. Investors remain cautious ahead of renewed nuclear talks between the United States and Iran. Washington is reportedly increasing military pressure on Tehran in an effort to push negotiations forward, keeping geopolitical risks in focus.
All Eyes on Fed and U.S. Data
This week’s economic calendar could determine gold’s next move. Markets are closely watching upcoming U.S. data and the minutes from the Federal Reserve’s January meeting, due Wednesday.
Key releases include:
- Industrial production data on Wednesday
- PCE price index on Friday, the Fed’s preferred inflation measure
- Federal Reserve meeting minutes for insight into rate policy
The PCE price index is especially important. If inflation remains stubborn, the Fed may delay cutting interest rates. Higher rates typically reduce gold’s appeal because the metal does not pay interest.
Recent economic signals have been mixed. Inflation cooled slightly in January, offering some relief. At the same time, employment strengthened, suggesting the economy remains resilient. Strong labor data can support higher interest rates, which can pressure gold.
Uncertainty over monetary policy has weighed on metals in recent weeks. President Donald Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed Chairman added another layer of concern for investors. Warsh is widely viewed as less dovish, meaning he may favor tighter policy to control inflation.
Volatility After January Rally
Gold’s retreat also follows heavy profit-taking after a powerful rally in January that pushed precious metals to record highs. Speculative buying drove prices sharply upward, and some traders are now locking in gains.
Current market snapshot:
- Spot gold: $4,978.39 (–0.3%)
- April futures: $4,996.69 (–0.3%)
- Spot silver: $76.0400 (–0.9%)
- Platinum: $2,030.61 (+0.5%)
For newer investors, the story is simple: gold often rises when uncertainty increases, but it can fall when interest rates or the dollar move higher. With major economic data ahead, traders are waiting for clearer signals before making big moves.
The next 72 hours could set the tone for metals markets heading into March.
