LONDON, June 9 (Reuters): Gold prices are expected to hit another record high this year despite a dip in physical demand, consultancy Metals Focus said, as interest rate cuts arrive against a backdrop of US-China tensions and conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Demand for gold will likely slip 2 per cent to 4,639 tonnes this year, with lower jewellery fabrication, declining net physical investment and reduced central bank appetite, Metals Focus said in its annual report last week.
Safe-haven demand driven by geopolitical and economic uncertainty as well as persistent central bank buying contributed to a rally in gold from March to May, taking spot prices to a record $2,449.89 per ounce on May 20.
"Although there are downside risks in the near term, we are confident that prices will see a new record before the end of the year and average $2,250 for the full year, marking another annual average record," Metals Focus said.
Sentiment towards gold is supported by fears over US government debt, the anticipated arrival of rate cuts, elevated geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, it said.
From the point of view of fundamentals, demand from central banks remains significantly higher than pre-2022 when they sped up purchases to diversify foreign currency reserves, providing further support to the price.
"Near-term (price) corrections are likely, as tactical players take profits or are perhaps triggered by liquidations in equities," Metals Focus said.
"The downside however should be limited, as there are still investors sitting on the sidelines waiting for opportunities to enter the market."
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