Gold prices rose above $4,200 per ounce on Monday after a weekly decline, as traders awaited the Federal Reserve’s final policy meeting of the year, where officials are widely expected to cut interest rates. Mixed US employment data and core inflation in line with expectations have supported the case for additional easing. Current market pricing implies an 88% probability of a 25bps cut in the 3.75% to 4.0% funds rate, with expectations of two more reductions next year. Aside from the rate decision, traders will also scrutinize the Fed’s updated economic projections for 2026 and beyond. Meanwhile, Tuesday’s JOLTS job openings report, the final labor market reading before the Fed’s announcement, will be closely watched. Elsewhere, China’s central bank increased its gold reserves for the 13th consecutive month, bringing holdings to roughly 74.12 million troy ounces.
