Gold prices were poised for their biggest weekly jump in five months on Friday, hovering near a historic high, as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's remarks cemented mid-year rate cut bets, ahead of a key jobs report later in the day.
Gold prices surged to another record high on Friday as data showing a rise in the U.S. unemployment rate boosted expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve could begin cutting interest rates soon.
Low interest rates are supportive for gold prices as they reduce the opportunity cost of holding bullion.
Gold prices will continue to trend higher overall, though a short consolidation may be necessary," said Tai Wong, a New York-based independent metals trader.
Meanwhile, London's gold price benchmark hit another record high of $2171.30 per troy ounce at an afternoon auction on Friday, the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) said.
Persons:
Jerome Powell's, Bullion, Gold, David Meger, Tai Wong
Organizations:
U.S . Federal Reserve, High, Treasury, Traders, London Bullion Market Association
Locations:
U.S, New York