According to Odaily, market analysts suggest that if the U.S. December Consumer Price Index (CPI) released tonight is significantly lower than expected, it could lead to a rapid strengthening of gold prices due to anticipated interest rate cuts. If the CPI is slightly lower, gold prices may maintain a bullish trend and rise gradually. Should the CPI meet expectations, the market is likely to remain stable, with gold prices consolidating at high levels while awaiting further signals.
Conversely, if inflation exceeds expectations, particularly with a rise in core inflation, an increase in real interest rates could cause a short-term decline in gold prices. However, if the scenario of "high interest rates combined with persistent inflation" evolves into concerns about stagflation, gold may attract stronger safe-haven buying in the medium term.
