The beginning of actual negotiations could lead to a significant drop in gold prices in the near future.

In previous articles, I suggested that the previously surging price of gold could undergo a major correction amid the launch of talks between Beijing and Washington regarding tariffs.

To recap, back in November 2023, the price of the yellow metal broke through the strong psychological resistance level of $2,000 per ounce, and from there began its almost uninterrupted rise. At the time, there were several reasons for the increased demand, three of which stand out. Two of them are interconnected: the escalation of global tensions driven by the war between the West and Russia in Ukraine and the large-scale escalation of the long-standing Israel–Palestine conflict, now backed by Iran. The third reason was economic: the heightened risk of the global economy sliding into a prolonged and deep crisis.

On this wave, central banks began actively purchasing physical gold, and investors flocked into gold-backed ETFs, hedging against a collapse in other asset values. But that collapse didn't materialize — on the contrary, investors sought safe haven in U.S. assets as usual. Against this backdrop, U.S. stock markets surged, and interest rates, previously raised by the Federal Reserve, stabilized. Around the same time, talk began about the need to start cutting rates, which finally happened for the first time in autumn 2024.

Fears of a U.S. recession and a real economic depression in Europe (due to its deep involvement in the standoff with Russia) continued to support gold demand. After Donald Trump took office, the bullish momentum in gold prices continued, driven primarily by heightened uncertainty over the policies of the 47th president. The onset of a trade war strengthened this key supportive factor for gold.

What could happen to gold prices if Beijing and Washington reach a tariff compromise?

I believe gold could undergo a significant correction. However, a more substantial drop — say, back toward $2,000 — is likely to be prevented by ongoing factors such as the war in Ukraine and the risks of a global crisis. If trade talks produce a positive result, gold will likely fall to around $3,000 per troy ounce, where it may find strong support. Given this scenario, I believe any noticeable upward correction should be seen as an opportunity to sell gold.

Forecast of the Day:

GOLD

Gold is trading around the $3,300.00 level. Renewed optimism over a potential U.S.-China trade deal could trigger another decline toward $3,200, which may be a suitable level for selling.

#NDX

The contract is gaining support from rising hopes for a U.S.-China trade agreement. If such a scenario unfolds, demand for tech sector stocks is expected to rise, pushing the contract up toward 19,891.60. A potential buy level is 19,382.10.