Market Update: 16th September 2025 – Gold & Fed: High Stakes Ahead

The Bigger Picture

The U.S. economy is giving off mixed vibes right now. Job markets are softening, growth looks like it’s losing a bit of steam, and inflation has stopped falling. Put that all together and the odds of the Federal Reserve cutting rates tomorrow have the markets almost certain of a 0.25% move.

But here’s the real catch: it’s not just about the cut. It’s about what Powell and the Fed say alongside it. If they open the door to more cuts, gold could light up with fresh momentum. If they strike a cautious tone, warning that easing will be limited, then gold could just as easily take a step back.

Globally, the winds are blowing in gold’s favour. Central banks are adding to their reserves, investors are creeping back into ETFs, and UBS has even raised its end-2025 forecast to $3,800/oz*. Add to that a weakening dollar and some nerves over U.S. debt, and suddenly Treasuries don’t look quite as attractive. For gold, this is all music to the ears, provided the Fed keeps the tune dovish tomorrow.

The Miran Factor

In Washington, another twist has entered the mix. Steve Miran until now a key voice in the White House has been confirmed to the Fed Board of Governors. The vote was tight, and the move is unusual because Miran will stay linked to the White House while serving at the Fed. That’s raised plenty of eyebrows about independence and political influence.

Why does this matter for markets? Simple. Miran is known to favour deeper rate cuts, and his presence could tilt the messaging more dovish. Traders are now wondering whether his arrival will push the Fed to deliver not just tomorrow’s cut, but also a softer, more pro-easing narrative in the months ahead.

What Gold Is Telling Us

Gold is already hinting that it expects a friendly outcome from the Fed. Prices are trading just under the $3,700 mark (as of writing) the level everyone’s watching. A potential Support seems to be holding around $3,665–$3,675, and if Powell leans dovish tomorrow, we could quickly potentially see a move to $3,740 level or higher. On the flip side, a hawkish surprise might drag prices back toward the $3,615–$3,645 zone.

What matters most isn’t the cut itself, but the details around it:

• Does the Fed signal this is the start of more cuts to come, or just a one-off?

• How do they keep inflation risks under control, or is it still a problem?

• Do the infamous “dot plots” hint at more easing later this year?

Final Thoughts

This Fed meeting isn’t just about 25 basis points; it’s about the story the Fed wants to tell. If that story is one of more easing and confidence that inflation is under control, gold could finally crack through $3,700 and aim for the $3,740–$3,780 zone. But if Powell pushes back against the idea of multiple cuts, the metal could just as quickly give up ground.
Tomorrow’s decision is the stage, but the tone is the performance and gold traders are waiting in the wings.

Anyway, till next time, all of you trade safe!

By James Trescothick
Head of Market Research and Market Analysis

*Source: Reuters

Risk Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Financial markets involve risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always conduct your own research and seek professional advice before making investment decisions.