$gold Gold hits US$3,339 as markets brace for Fed moves and Bitcoin’s next big drop

Anndy Lian

Gold hits US$3,339 as markets brace for Fed moves and Bitcoin’s next big dropfind myself drawn to the complexity of this moment, a trading session marked by mixed signals, yet brimming with implications for investors worldwide.

Let’s dive into the details, explore what’s driving these shifts, and offer my perspective on where things might be headed, all grounded in the facts and data at hand.

Global risks sentiment and economic backdrop

The global risks sentiment during this recent trading session was undeniably mixed, a reflection of the myriad forces tugging at investor confidence.

On one hand, there’s optimism stemming from stronger-than-expected US economic data: May’s US JOLTS job openings surged to 4.6 per cent, signalling robust labour market demand, while the ISM Manufacturing index ticked up to 49.0, hinting at a stabilisation in industrial activity despite remaining below the expansion threshold of 50.

These figures paint a picture of an economy that’s holding its own, defying some of the gloomier forecasts that have lingered in recent months. This resilience is a reminder that the US economy often finds ways to surprise on the upside, even amid uncertainty.

Yet, this positivity is tempered by caution. Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s latest remarks reinforce a “wait-and-see” approach, a stance that keeps markets guessing about the Federal Reserve’s next move. His acknowledgment that a rate cut in July isn’t off the table adds a layer of intrigue, suggesting flexibility but no firm commitment.

I see this as the Fed walking a tightrope: balancing the need to support growth against the risk of overheating an economy that’s already showing strength. It’s a prudent strategy, but one that leaves investors hungry for clearer signals.

Adding to the mix is a significant legislative development: the US Senate’s razor-thin approval of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passing 51-50 with Vice President Vance casting the decisive vote.