Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-11-28 04:13Core Viewpoint - Gold prices experienced a slight decline after reaching a near two-week high, as investors assess the likelihood of a Federal Reserve rate cut in December, with market bets on rate cuts increasing significantly [1][6]. Market Performance - Spot gold fell by 0.1%, trading around $4158 [2]. - Since hitting a record high of $4381.21 on October 20, gold has retreated approximately 5% but remains above the critical $4000 level [4]. Analyst Insights - Carsten Menke from Julius Baer expects the consolidation in gold prices to continue, as the effects of the previous correction have not been fully digested [4]. - Factors supporting gold prices include a slowing U.S. economy leading to lower interest rates, a weak dollar, ongoing safe-haven demand, and strong central bank purchases [4]. Federal Reserve Signals - The Federal Reserve has sent mixed signals regarding the timing and extent of rate cuts, increasing demand for hedging in overnight interest rate-related options and derivatives [4]. - The probability of a rate cut in December has surged to 85%, up from 30% a week prior, according to CME FedWatch data [6]. Future Price Predictions - Bank of America projects a target price of $5000 per ounce for gold, indicating a potential increase of 19% from current levels, driven by persistent fundamental forces [8]. - Goldman Sachs anticipates a price of $4900 per ounce by the end of next year, reflecting a 17% increase [9]. - Deutsche Bank forecasts gold could reach $4950 per ounce by 2026, suggesting an 18% upside potential [13]. - HSBC offers a more moderate outlook, predicting gold prices will fluctuate between $3600 and $4400 per ounce by 2026, with the upper limit indicating a 5% increase [15]. Demand Drivers - Central bank purchases are expected to remain strong, particularly as countries seek to diversify reserves in light of geopolitical tensions [10][12]. - The anticipated global rate cuts are expected to enhance the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold [11].