Gold prices fell below $4,200 per ounce on Friday as investors awaited key US data ahead of next week’s FOMC decision. Focus is on the postponed September PCE report, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, due later today, which could clarify the timing and pace of monetary easing. Meanwhile, ADP reported an unexpected drop of 32K in private payrolls, and Challenger recorded 71K layoffs in November, bringing the year-to-date total close to 1.17M, signaling a cooling labor market. These developments have strengthened expectations of a Fed rate cut next week, with markets pricing in roughly an 87% probability. Reports that White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett could succeed Fed Chair Powell in May have also fueled speculation of a shift toward more aggressive easing. Over the week, gold is on track for a modest loss.
