Gold and Silver Prices Slip Ahead of Key U.S. Economic Data and Fed Minutes

Gold and silver prices edged lower on Tuesday, extending losses from the previous session as investors turned cautious ahead of major U.S. economic data releases and the Federal Reserve’s January meeting minutes. Thin trading volumes due to market holidays in both China and the United States contributed to subdued activity, while a stronger U.S. dollar added pressure on precious metals.

Spot gold declined 0.3% to $4,978.39 per ounce, while April gold futures also fell 0.3% to $4,996.69 per ounce. Silver prices experienced sharper losses, with spot silver down 0.9% to $76.0400 per ounce. In contrast, platinum prices bucked the trend, rising 0.5% to $2,030.61 per ounce.

The modest rebound in the U.S. dollar weighed heavily on gold and silver, as a stronger greenback typically makes dollar-denominated commodities more expensive for overseas buyers. At the same time, safe-haven demand remained present amid geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding upcoming nuclear talks between the United States and Iran. Reports suggest Washington is increasing military pressure on Tehran in an effort to secure a diplomatic agreement, keeping investors on edge.

Market attention is now firmly focused on upcoming U.S. economic indicators. Industrial production data is scheduled for release on Wednesday, alongside the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes, which could offer fresh insights into policymakers’ stance on inflation and interest rates. Later in the week, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, will be closely monitored for signals on future monetary policy.

Recent uncertainty around U.S. interest rate policy has weighed on gold prices, especially following President Donald Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chair. Warsh is widely seen as less dovish, prompting profit-taking after gold surged to record highs in January. Meanwhile, mixed economic data showed cooling inflation alongside improving labor market conditions, further complicating the outlook for precious metals investors.