Stock Market Steady as Gold Hits Records and Mortgage Rates Fall
Equities opened the week with measured gains as investors await pivotal inflation data. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq edged higher amid shifting expectations for Federal Reserve policy. Market participants now anticipate a September rate cut, with debate centered on the magnitude rather than the likelihood of easing.
Gold's record-breaking rally continues unabated, surpassing $3,650/oz as investors flee bonds. The precious metal benefits from dual tailwinds: anticipated Fed dovishness and persistent geopolitical tensions. Central bank accumulation and ETF inflows further propel the rally, underscoring gold's resurgence as a preferred haven asset.