Gold remains under pressure for a second consecutive day as traders weigh renewed Federal Reserve rate hike speculation against geopolitical tensions in Iran. Trading below the $4,400 mark during Monday’s Asian session, the precious metal is caught between bearish dollar strength and safe-haven demand.

The US dollar is gaining traction as market participants reassess the Fed’s monetary policy trajectory, with rising expectations that interest rates could remain elevated longer than previously anticipated. This is pushing down non-yielding assets like gold, which become less attractive when dollar-denominated returns increase. However, ongoing risks surrounding Iran are providing some support, preventing a sharper decline in prices.

The competing forces of dollar strength and geopolitical uncertainty are creating a volatile trading environment for gold, with the $4,400 level emerging as critical near-term support. Traders in precious metals and forex markets should monitor Fed commentary closely alongside Middle East developments.

FXnCO Insight

Watch for a decisive break below $4,400 in gold as a signal for further downside, while any escalation in Iran tensions could trigger quick reversals favoring safe-haven flows.

Source: FXStreet