Market Update: 23rd January 2026- The Dollar Slips, Metals Shine

The US dollar has just suffered its worst week since June and the market response has been tellingly calm. No drama, no disorderly unwind. Just a quiet acknowledgement that the trade had become a little too comfortable.

The trigger was predictable enough. US data softened at the margins, inflation failed to reassert itself, and rate-cut expectations edged forward once again. Nothing decisive, but enough to chip away at the dollar’s yield story. When rate differentials stop widening, the logic of sitting in a crowded long begins to weaken.

Importantly, this wasn’t a risk-off move. Equities held firm, volatility stayed suppressed, and there was no scramble for safety. In that environment, the dollar didn’t collapse it simply became optional. Investors trimmed exposure, rotated elsewhere, and moved on.

One of the clearer beneficiaries has been precious metals. As the dollar eased and real yields drifted lower, both gold and silver found renewed support. Gold, in particular, continues to benefit from a combination of softer USD dynamics and persistent demand for diversification less about panic hedging, more about quiet insurance. Silver followed suit, helped by its dual role as both a monetary and cyclical asset in a broadly constructive risk backdrop.

Positioning adds context. USD longs had rebuilt steadily over recent months, leaving the currency exposed once the data stopped delivering upside surprises. This week looked less like capitulation and more like spring cleaning lightening up rather than tearing up the playbook.

Bottom Line

Does this mark the start of a sustained dollar downtrend? Probably not yet. US growth remains relatively resilient, and the dollar’s role as the market’s default refuge hasn’t disappeared. But the bar for renewed strength is rising. Without consistent data validation, the dollar risks drifting rather than dominating.

For now, this feels like a recalibration. The dollar steps back, metals step forward, and markets remind us again that consensus trades only work for as long as everyone keeps believing.

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

By James Trescothick
Head of Market Research and Market Analysis

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.