Gold prices hit a wall after soaring over 50% this year due to economic concerns and trade tensions, with recent sharp declines raising questions about the sustainability of the rally and prompting analysts to advise caution and consider alternative safe-haven assets like Treasuries.
U.S. stocks declined as economic data was limited due to a government shutdown, with investors cautious about economic weakness and Federal Reserve policies, leading to declines across major indexes and sectors, despite some positive corporate earnings and sector-specific gains.
Argentine assets are experiencing new declines amid concerns over a potential US bailout, reflecting ongoing economic instability and investor anxiety.
Crude oil prices are on track for their largest weekly decline since March, with Brent crude falling by close to 12% and West Texas Intermediate declining by almost 9%. The drop in prices was driven by weak U.S. gasoline demand, a bond market selloff, and concerns about the global economy. The decision by OPEC+ to maintain production cuts had little impact on the market, as traders are now more focused on economic worries. Inflation in the United States has also affected consumer spending on fuels, leading to a decline in gasoline demand. Further swings in oil prices are expected based on the upcoming jobs report and inflation data.