美国抢黄金，抢出了“经济恐慌”？

Core Viewpoint - Recent economic activity data in the US has shown signs of weakness, leading to pessimistic expectations for Q1 GDP growth, with the Atlanta Fed's GDPNow model predicting a decline to -1.5% annualized growth [1][2] Group 1: Trade Deficit and Gold Imports - The significant increase in gold imports has been identified as a major factor contributing to the widening trade deficit, with January's goods trade deficit exceeding 6% of GDP [2] - Goldman Sachs estimates that gold imports in January amounted to approximately $25 billion, accounting for nearly the entire $31 billion increase in the trade deficit [2] - The surge in gold imports is primarily driven by market participants in Europe seeking to mitigate potential tariff risks, rather than reflecting immediate consumption needs [2][3] Group 2: GDP Growth Predictions - Goldman Sachs forecasts a Q1 2025 GDP growth rate of 1.6%, which, while lower than previous expectations, remains above the Atlanta Fed's prediction [3] - The firm maintains its Q4 2025 GDP growth forecast at 2.2%, slightly down from an initial expectation of 2.4% [3] Group 3: Consumer Spending and Unemployment Claims - Weak consumer spending in January is attributed to multiple factors, including cold weather, seasonal influences, and a normal correction following rapid consumption growth in the latter half of 2024 [6] - The rise in unemployment claims may be overstated due to seasonal volatility and difficulties in seasonal adjustment, with past spikes in claims often reverting quickly [6]