Gold turns cautious as Fed decision briefly overshadows Middle East tensions

LONDON (June 18) Gold (XAU/USD) is holding steady near $3,385 on Wednesday, supported by persistent geopolitical tensions and investor caution ahead of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy decision.

At the time of writing, price action remains stable above $3,380, with traders focused on the Fed’s rate outlook, updated economic projections, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s tone—any of which could trigger sharp moves in both the US Dollar and Gold later in the session.

Recent comments from US President Donald Trump have further fueled safe-haven flows. On Tuesday, Trump returned early from the G7 summit in Canada to meet with his national security team at the White House to discuss the potential scale of US involvement in the escalating Israel–Iran conflict.

The Wall Street Journal reported that while “a strike was just one of the options that was discussed,” no final decision had been made on military action. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “We now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran,” doubling down on his demand for “unconditional surrender.” He also dismissed the idea of a ceasefire, stating he wanted a “real end” to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. These developments have added to market unease, reinforcing Gold’s appeal as a hedge against rising geopolitical risk.

Daily digest market movers: Fed rate expectations take the spotlight

• According to the CME FedWatch Tool, analysts expect the Fed to keep interest rates steady, remaining in the 4.25%-4.50% range during the next two meetings, with a 58% chance of a rate cut in September.
•  The Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) and the updated dot plot will reveal how policymakers view inflation, growth, and the likely path of interest rates for the remainder of the year. Investors will closely monitor any changes in inflation forecasts and interest rate expectations, as these will shape the outlook for potential rate cuts. In the last dot plot, policymakers anticipated two rate cuts for 2025.
• Powell’s tone during the press conference will be key, especially his comments on recent data and whether current policy remains appropriate, taking into account the increasing uncertainty stemming from global geopolitical risks. Dovish signals could weigh on the US Dollar and support Gold, while a hawkish tone may strengthen the Dollar and pressure Gold.
• Because Fed policy influences borrowing costs, risk appetite, and currency strength, any shift in tone or projections can have a direct impact on demand for safe-haven assets such as Gold. 
• In times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty, Gold becomes a favored safe-haven asset due to its intrinsic value and lack of counterparty risk, especially when trust in traditional financial systems erodes.
• Central banks have significantly increased their Gold holdings, acquiring over 1,000 tonnes annually in each of the last three years—more than double the average from the previous decade, according to the World Gold Council’s 2025 Central Bank Gold Reserves survey.

FXStreet