Gold prices fell sharply in Asian markets on Wednesday, reacting to fresh developments in U.S. trade policy. The decline follows President Donald Trump’s announcement that the U.S. would ease certain tariffs on automotive imports—especially those involving foreign components used in domestically assembled vehicles.
As of 02:08 ET (06:08 GMT), Spot Gold fell 1.1% to $3,308.93 per ounce, while June Gold Futures slipped 0.8% to $3,322.55, based on data from CME Group.
The move comes amid signs of thawing trade relations between the U.S. and China. Officials confirmed that Washington remains in dialogue with Beijing, raising hopes of de-escalation in what has been a prolonged trade dispute.
Gold, often a hedge against economic and geopolitical uncertainty, had recently surged to record highs. However, signs of stabilizing international relations are reducing immediate demand for the metal as a safe haven.
Other metals also showed mixed performance:
- Silver Futures dipped 0.4% to $32.862 per ounce
- Platinum Futures remained flat at $993.20
Market Eyes U.S. Jobs and Inflation Data
Traders now shift focus to upcoming U.S. macroeconomic indicators, which could further influence gold and broader commodity markets. The Federal Reserve has remained cautious on policy changes, awaiting clearer signs from inflation and employment metrics.
Key data releases this week include:
- JOLTS job openings (March) – due Tuesday
- April U.S. Jobs Report – scheduled for Friday
- Q1 GDP figures
- PCE Price Index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge
These data points will help determine whether the Fed maintains its current policy stance or pivots toward rate cuts later this year.
Copper Steady as China Avoids Stimulus
Copper prices were largely unchanged, as the market awaits concrete steps from China in response to new U.S. tariff measures. While Beijing pledged support for affected industries, it stopped short of announcing new fiscal or monetary stimulus.
Current copper performance:
- LME Copper Futures held steady at $9,392.20 per ton
- May Copper Contracts on U.S. exchanges dipped 0.8% to $4.8620 per pound
Market participants remain cautious, watching both trade policy shifts and China’s economic response, which heavily influences global demand for industrial metals.
As global financial markets digest policy adjustments and economic data, volatility in safe-haven and industrial assets is expected to persist through the coming sessions.
