(Kitco News) - The gold market continues to see some selling pressure with prices falling further from $1,900 as consumer sentiment picks up more than expected and inflation expectations remain persistently elevated.
Friday, the University of Michigan said the preliminary reading of its Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 66.4, up from January’s reading of 64.9. the data beat expectations as consensus forecasts were calling for a reading of around 65.0.
Preliminary survey data has beat expectations for the last three consecutive months. However, the report noted that consumer optimism is still below historical averages.
“After three consecutive months of increases, sentiment is now 6% above a year ago but still 14% below two years ago, prior to the current inflationary episode,” the report said. “Overall, high prices continue to weigh on consumers despite the recent moderation in inflation, and sentiment remains more than 22% below its historical average since 1978.”
However, the report also noted that the positive sentiment might not lead to more consumption.
“Combined with concerns over rising unemployment on the horizon, consumers are poised to exercise greater caution with their spending in the months ahead,” the report said.
The better-than-expected data is weighing on gold prices. April gold futures last traded at $1,871.50 down 0.36% on the day.
Along with the improving economic sentiment, the report also highlighted rising inflation expectations, which could be taking its toll on gold. The report said that consumers expect inflation to rise to 4.2% in one year, up from January’s forecast of 3.9%.
Meanwhile long-term inflation expectations have held steady at 2.9% for the third consecutive month.
According to some economists, the persistently high inflation expectations could force the Federal Reserve to maintain its aggressive monetary policy stance longer than expected, which would support the U.S. dollar and weigh on gold.
