Geopolitical Risks - The intensifying competition between the US and China, particularly regarding Taiwan and South China Sea tensions, may trigger a phase of impulse-driven gold price increases by 2025 [1] - The global election year effect, with elections in 65 countries including the US, India, and Brazil, could lead to policy uncertainties, especially if extreme outcomes arise in the US elections, thereby elevating risk aversion [1] - The risk of uncontrolled AI governance may lead to market panic, reinforcing gold's status as a "safe haven" in the digital age [1] Central Bank Gold Purchases - Central banks globally have purchased over 1000 tons of gold for three consecutive years, with emerging market central banks (e.g., China, India, Turkey) expected to continue leading purchases in 2025 [3] - The People's Bank of China increased its gold reserves to 2298 tons by June 2025, marking eight consecutive months of accumulation, although the pace may slow due to high gold prices [3] - An increase of 100 tons in central bank gold purchases could reduce gold price volatility by 0.8% per quarter, but the "buy the expectation, sell the fact" effect should be monitored [3] Federal Reserve Monetary Policy - Key Federal Reserve meetings in 2025, particularly in March, June, September, and December, will be crucial for interest rate decisions and economic forecasts [3] - If inflation falls to the 2% target, a rate cut may occur in June, potentially driving gold prices up by 5-8% [3] - A 1% increase in the divergence of the dot plot could lead to a 1.2% increase in gold price volatility [3] Quarterly Price Forecasts - Q1 2025: Gold price expected to range between $2050-$2150, driven by US-China tensions and the US election primaries [5] - Q2 2025: Price forecasted at $2100-$2200, influenced by ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle East tensions, with potential Fed rate cut signals [5] - Q3 2025: Anticipated price range of $2150-$2250 as global election results stabilize risk appetite and the Fed confirms a rate cut [5] - Q4 2025: Price expected between $2100-$2200 due to AI governance controversies and Fed adjustments to rate cuts [5]

Core Viewpoint - The current fluctuations in gold prices are significantly influenced by Federal Reserve policy expectations, geopolitical situations, and central bank gold purchasing behaviors [2][3][4]. Group 1: Federal Reserve Policy Expectations - The expectation of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve is a key factor affecting gold prices. Recent poor ADP employment data did not lead to a clear indication of rate cuts from Powell, diminishing the likelihood of a July cut and leaving a 75% probability for September [2]. - Rising U.S. Treasury yields have made government bonds more attractive to investors, reducing the appeal of gold [2]. Group 2: Geopolitical Situations - Geopolitical tensions significantly impact the demand for gold as a safe-haven asset. A calming situation in the Middle East has led to a withdrawal of safe-haven funds, causing gold prices to drop [2]. - However, the complexity of geopolitical issues suggests that any easing may be temporary, and renewed conflicts could quickly increase demand for gold [2]. Group 3: Central Bank Gold Purchasing Behavior - The trend of global central banks purchasing gold affects supply, demand, and market confidence. According to the World Gold Council, nearly 43% of surveyed central banks plan to increase their gold reserves [3]. - Recent data indicates zero growth in China's gold reserves for May, and India's plans to increase import duties may lead to market panic among retail investors [3]. Group 4: Gold Price Outlook - In the short term, gold prices are under pressure due to unclear Federal Reserve rate cut expectations, a calming geopolitical landscape with uncertainties, and changing central bank purchasing behaviors [4]. - Long-term prospects for gold remain strong due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts and complex economic conditions, with central banks continuing to accumulate gold, providing some support for prices [4].