Gold heads for weekly loss as high oil prices feed inflation worries

NEW YORK: Gold prices fell more than 1percent on Friday and were headed for a weekly loss of a similar magnitude, as elevated oil prices continued to fan inflation concerns that would discourage central banks from cutting interest rates.

Spot gold was down 1.1percent at USD4,573.33 per ounce at 1149 GMT, and on track for a weekly loss of 2.8percent. US gold futures for June delivery fell 1percent to USD4,585.20.

“Gold remains negatively correlated to oil in the short term, as it impacts interest rate expectations,” said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo.

Iran said on Thursday it would respond with “long and painful strikes” on US positions if Washington renewed attacks, reiterating its claim to the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude prices have touched double the levels seen at the start of the year, raising concerns about a global economic slowdown and higher inflation as fuel prices surge.

US inflation accelerated in March as the war raised gasoline prices, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve could keep interest rates on hold well into next year.

The European Central Bank and the Bank of England left interest rates unchanged on Thursday, following similar decisions this week by the Fed and the Bank of Japan.

Gold, traditionally seen as a hedge against geopolitical uncertainty and inflation, can come under pressure in a high interest rate environment as it loses its appeal to yield-bearing assets like US Treasuries.

However, Staunovo said UBS retained a constructive outlook over the next six to 12 months. “Uncertainty surrounding upcoming (US) midterm elections, expectations of a weaker US dollar over time, and declining real interest rates (as the Fed cuts) will likely support investment demand alongside continued central bank demand,” he said. He added that these factors could drive prices towards USD5,900/oz by late 2026.

Spot silver prices fell 0.3percent to USD73.53 per ounce, platinum was down 0.5percent at USD1,975.65, and palladium lost 0.1percent to USD1,522.18.