Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-02-14 07:39Core Viewpoint - The recent drop in gold prices before the Spring Festival raises questions about purchasing decisions, despite retail prices remaining high at gold stores [1][3]. Group 1: Market Trends - Gold prices fell nearly 3% to $4914 per ounce on the last trading day before the Spring Festival, while domestic gold prices dropped to 1096.99 yuan per gram [1]. - Historical data shows that gold prices often decline in the week leading up to the Spring Festival due to increased cash outflows for year-end expenses [3]. - The expectation of a stronger U.S. economy and delayed interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve have contributed to a decrease in gold's attractiveness, as the dollar and U.S. Treasury yields rise [3]. Group 2: Investment Strategies - The long-term fundamentals for gold remain intact, with central banks continuing to buy gold and persistent geopolitical tensions sustaining demand for safe-haven assets [5]. - For those looking to invest in gold bars or through regular purchases, a strategy of dollar-cost averaging is recommended to mitigate the impact of market volatility [7]. - Investors should avoid selling immediately after the Spring Festival, as prices may be depressed due to high selling pressure; instead, a staggered selling approach is advised to lock in profits [7]. Group 3: Market Sentiment - The current market is characterized by fluctuating emotions among investors, oscillating between fear of missing out and fear of losses [10]. - Understanding historical patterns and maintaining a rational approach is crucial for navigating the gold market, especially during the typical low periods around the Spring Festival [11]. - The essence of investment in gold is not just about numbers but also about managing emotions and market sentiment effectively [11].