Gold markets initially attempted to rally this week but faced a significant decline as market participants began to focus on the possibility of the Federal Reserve cutting rates. The $2300 level is a critical support area, having been tested multiple times. If gold prices fall below the $2280 mark, a further decline to $2150 could be anticipated. Despite the recent downturn, I maintain a positive outlook on gold due to ongoing geopolitical concerns and the trend of global central banks cutting rates, which should support gold prices in the long run.
The recent surge in non-farm payrolls contributed to a rise in the dollar and a decline in risk appetite. In May, US non-farm payrolls increased by 272,000, significantly surpassing the consensus forecast of around 180,000. However, the figures for April were slightly revised down to 165,000 from the initially reported 175,000.
The unemployment rate rose to 4.0%, contrary to expectations that it would remain steady at 3.9%. The labor market survey also indicated a decline in employment by over 400,000 for the month, accompanied by a decrease in the participation rate.
Average earnings saw a 0.4% increase, compared to forecasts of 0.3%, with a year-on-year rise of 4.1%, higher than the expected 3.9% and up from a revised 4.0% previously. This wage and payroll data has reignited fears of inflationary pressures within the economy, casting doubts on the Federal Reserve's ability to cut interest rates in the near future.
As a result, Treasuries experienced sharp losses, with the 10-year yield rising above 4.40% from below 4.30% before the data release.