Gold prices climbed to around $4,240 per ounce on Monday

Gold prices climbed to around $4,240 per ounce on Monday, the highest level in six weeks, driven by rising expectations of a US interest rate cut next week. A series of dovish remarks from Federal Reserve officials, along with weak economic data following the longest US government shutdown, have increased bets that the Fed may lower rates again. Currently, markets are pricing in an 87% probability of a 25bps reduction. Investors will be closely monitoring US private payrolls data and PCE figures, due this week, for further clues on the Fed’s policy direction. Gold has posted gains in nearly every month this year, positioning it for its best annual performance since 1979. The metal’s ascent has been supported by robust central-bank buying and strong ETF inflows.