Core Viewpoint - The significant drop in gold prices is attributed to multiple factors, including profit-taking, a retreat in safe-haven demand, a strong US dollar, and adverse impacts on the precious metals market [2][3]. Fundamental Analysis - The recent plunge in gold prices is a result of profit-taking and a decline in safe-haven demand, driven by optimistic signals in international trade, ceasefire expectations in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and potential resolution of the US government shutdown [2]. - The US dollar index rose by 0.34% to 98.98, influenced by the election of Japan's new Prime Minister, which further supported the dollar and increased the cost for non-US currency investors to purchase gold [2]. - Silver prices fell by 7% to $48.62 per ounce, while platinum and palladium also saw declines exceeding 5%, indicating a broader weakness in the precious metals sector [2]. Technical Analysis - On the daily chart, gold formed a "bearish engulfing" pattern, indicating strong bearish signals and effective suppression of bullish momentum [4]. - The break below the 5-day and 10-day moving averages marks the beginning of an adjustment phase, with the next key support level at the weekly MA5, currently around 3990 [4]. - The four-hour chart indicated a potential "double top" pattern, with actual price movement exceeding expectations, highlighting market uncertainty [6]. Future Outlook - In the short term, gold prices may enter a consolidation phase lasting two to three weeks, while medium to long-term factors such as geopolitical uncertainty and central bank buying demand may continue to support gold [3]. - Upcoming inflation data and Federal Reserve meetings could pose potential impacts on gold prices, but the core value of gold as a hedging tool remains unchanged [3].