Gold Prices Fall 2% on US-China Trade Agreement, Easing Middle East Tensions

Gold prices fell by nearly 2% following the announcement of a US-China trade agreement, with spot gold dropping below $3,300 an ounce amid improved risk appetite and easing geopolitical tensions, including a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. President Donald Trump highlighted the signing of the trade deal and indicated upcoming agreements with other major partners like India, which helped reduce the demand for gold as a safe-haven asset. The trade deal has also led to expectations of a pause or extension in reciprocal tariffs, further boosting market sentiment and putting downward pressure on gold prices. Despite the recent declines, gold remains up more than 25% this year, supported by central bank buying and optimism about future Federal Reserve rate cuts, with markets anticipating rate reductions in 2025. Upcoming US economic data, such as the core Personal Consumption Expenditure report, will be closely watched as it influences Federal Reserve policy and gold price movements. While lower interest rates tend to support gold, the ongoing shift toward equities and riskier assets may limit bullion's short-term gains.