Gold Prices Gain on Softer Dollar; Focus on US Inflation Data

Gold jewelry is seen displayed for sale at a Chow Tai Fook jewelry store in Shanghai, China November 27, 2023. REUTERS/Nicoco Chan
Gold jewelry is seen displayed for sale at a Chow Tai Fook jewelry store in Shanghai, China November 27, 2023. REUTERS/Nicoco Chan
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Gold Prices Gain on Softer Dollar; Focus on US Inflation Data

Gold jewelry is seen displayed for sale at a Chow Tai Fook jewelry store in Shanghai, China November 27, 2023. REUTERS/Nicoco Chan
Gold jewelry is seen displayed for sale at a Chow Tai Fook jewelry store in Shanghai, China November 27, 2023. REUTERS/Nicoco Chan

Gold prices rose on Tuesday as the dollar softened, while investors awaited a key US inflation report and speeches from Federal Reserve officials for cues into the central bank's potential rate-cut timings.
Spot gold was up 0.4% at $2,038.19 per ounce, as of 0840 GMT. US gold futures rose 0.5% to $2,047.90 per ounce.
The dollar traded weaker, making greenback-priced bullion relatively less expensive for other currency holders.
"Ahead of inflation number we expect some kind of consolidation. We expect gold to trade in a very narrow range ... bias will be 'sell' on jump," said Ajay Kedia, director at Kedia Commodities in Mumbai.
The support for gold follows Japan and the UK entering into a technical recession, a trend reflected in the gold-silver ratio, which is currently at 90 <XAU-XAG>, Kedia said. "But, there is no change in war premium, everything has been already priced in."
Recent remarks from Fed policymakers suggested that the US central bank was in no hurry to cut interest rates, largely cementing bets against any rate cuts before June.
Markets are currently pricing in about 81 basis points of rate cuts for 2024, with a 64% chance of the first quarter-point cut occurring in June, according to LSEG's interest rate probability app, IRPR.
Lower interest rates boost the appeal of holding non-yielding bullion.
At least 10 Fed officials are due to speak this week, while investors are focused on the core personal consumption expenditures price index, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, due on Thursday.
Investors are also monitoring the risk of US government agency shutdowns if Congress fails to reach an agreement on a borrowing extension by Friday.
Spot platinum climbed 0.8% to $887.04 per ounce, palladium jumped 0.9% to $963.50, and silver rose 0.7% to $22.67 per ounce.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.