Dollar's Rally Weighs on Gold Prices
Gold prices are struggling to break above $4,100 despite closing above it on Thursday. The precious metal is failing to resist the US Dollar's rebound from six-week lows against its major currency rivals.
The Greenback's rally is driven by haven demand, which is being fueled by concerns over Middle East hostilities and persistent hopes for interest rate hikes in the US later this year.
HSBC analysts note that the US Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged for a fifth consecutive meeting, but stressed that there was a lively debate within the FOMC. They maintain a neutral duration stance and favor high-quality investment-grade credit to capture attractive yields and coupon income.
The USD's comeback is also being supported by resilient US economic fundamentals and relatively attractive interest rate differentials.