Latest Finance-Economy News
Gold Retreats to $5,114 After Record Surge Amid Dollar Strength
Gold pulled back $67 intraday to $5,114 per ounce on March 13 after all-time highs, driven by geopolitical risks and central bank demand. Despite correction from stronger US dollar and Treasury yields, year-on-year gain exceeds $2,130 with institutional buying providing support.
US Dollar Index Hits 3.5-Month High, Braking Precious Metals Rally
The US dollar index reached a 3.5-month high this week due to resilient US data and Fed's 'higher for longer' stance. This creates near-term headwinds for gold and silver, though central bank accumulation and geopolitics support long-term bullish case.
Platinum Falls to $2,042 from January Record on Automotive Demand Drop
Platinum retreated sharply from $2,920 in January to $2,042 per ounce amid reduced automotive demand and stronger dollar. WPIC forecasts supply deficit through 2029, signaling potential future pressures.
US Bombs Iran's Main Oil Hub, Intensifying Middle East Conflict Costs
US strikes on Iran's primary oil hub escalate the Iran war, mounting human and financial tolls in billions. This threatens global oil supply, driving price surges and economic disruptions.
Sticky US Inflation at 2.4% CPI, 2.5% Core CPI Amid Middle East Tensions
February CPI at 2.4% and Core CPI at 2.5% remain persistently high without further disinflation toward Fed's 2% target. Middle East conflict since late February risks higher oil prices impacting future readings.
Global GDP Growth Forecast Downgraded to 2.8% for 2026 on War, Tariffs
Real global GDP expected to cool to 2.8% in 2026 from 3.3% in 2025 due to Middle East war and US tariff escalations via Section 122. Uncertainty threatens activity amid Supreme Court tariff ruling.
Middle East War Drives Oil Price Volatility, Broader Inflation Risks
Oil prices surged with high volatility from conflict; downstream fuel costs hit consumers and factories globally. Expect depressed growth, higher inflation forcing central banks to delay cuts or hike rates.
China Data in Focus: Industrial Output, Retail Sales to Shape Commodities
March 15 spotlights China's industrial production, retail sales, fixed assets, housing, and unemployment data. As key commodity demand driver, figures will influence Asian indices, oil, and global sentiment.
Midas Funds' Winmill Predicts Gold Above $5,500 Soon on De-Dollarisation
Portfolio manager Thomas Winmill forecasts gold surpassing $5,500 within months, citing de-dollarisation and central bank strategies. Bullish outlook persists despite short-term dollar pressures.
Upcoming Central Bank Decisions: Fed, ECB, BoE to Drive Markets This Week
Key events include FOMC on March 18, ECB on March 19, RBA on March 17, and BoE on March 19 with rate decisions and statements. Inflation data like Eurozone CPI will shape policy expectations and volatility.
US Trade Developments: New USTR Investigations Escalate Tariff Uncertainty
Office of US Trade Representative launched new investigations on March 12, broadening tariff rates post-Supreme Court IEEPA ruling. This heightens global trade policy risks.