Gold prices under pressure: $3,330-3,350Gold prices under pressure: $3,330-3,350
Upward momentum: Gold could break through $3,330 if the Federal Reserve hints at a September rate cut or the EU economy deteriorates.
Downside risks: Gold could fall below $3,300 if strong US economic data (such as GDP and PCE figures) are released.
Optimistic scenario: If the Fed cuts rates in September and global stagflation risks increase, gold could reach $3,400.
Pessimistic scenario: If the US economy experiences a soft landing, rising real interest rates could push gold prices down to $3,200.
Key Technical Levels:
Support: $3,300
Resistance: $3,330/$3,350
Aggressive Strategy:
Sell Price: $3,325-$3,330
Stop Loss: $3,335
Target Price: $3,310
Conservative Strategy:
Sell Price: $3,340-$3,350
Stop Loss: $3,355
Target Price: $3,330-$3,310
Bottom Picking Strategy:
Buy Price: $3,300-$3,310
Stop Loss: $3,290
Target Price: Above $3,350/$3,400
GOLD trade ideas
Gold Price Analysis July 29📉 XAUUSD ANALYSIS – IS THE CORRECTION OFFICIALLY STARTING?
Gold has officially broken out of the bullish wave structure and left the rising price channel – an important technical signal that the bearish correction trend has been activated. This development opens up the possibility of retests of the broken trendline, and if that happens in today's session, this could be a good opportunity to look for SELL entry points in the new trend.
📌 Short-term trading strategy:
Potential selling zone: 3343 – 3345
Downside target: 3283 first, followed by the strong liquidity zone around 3250
Confirmation of bearish force: Price continues to maintain below the 3375 area – which will act as an important resistance level. Only when the daily candle closes back above this zone will the uptrend be re-established.
✅ Reverse buying strategy if there is a strong support signal:
Buy trigger zone: Observe the price reaction around the 3285 area - there needs to be a clear bearish rejection signal (pin bar/bullish engulfing candle...)
Deeper buying zone: 3251 - where liquidity is concentrated and there is a possibility of bottom-fishing demand appearing.
THE KOG REPORT - UpdateEnd of day update from us here at KOG:
Not bad play at all with the red boxes working well, KOG's bias of the day and the red box targets working well and of course the indicators and our trusted algo Excalibur guiding the way completing the move that we wanted downside. We then got a fantastic long from the bias level and red box activation up into where we are now.
So, what now?
We have resistance and a red box above which is broken suggesting we may see some more movement downside in the coming sessions. This would also align with the hunt and undercut low that can take place at this key level. We're a bit too low to short, so we'll either look for the break above 3375 to go higher, or, we'll wait lower for a potential long trade from the red box region.
Immediate support here is 3360-5 and resistance 3375.
Price: 3364
KOG’s Bias of the day:
Bullish above 3350 with targets above 3358✅, 3365✅ and above that 3379✅
Bearish on break of 3350 with target below 3337 and below that 3330
RED BOXES:
Break above 3365 for 3372✅, 3375✅, 3388 and 3406 in extension of the move
Break below 3350 for 3335, 3330, 3326 and 3307 in extension of the move
As always, trade safe.
KOG
Report - 5 August, 2025EVENT OVERVIEW & MARKET REACTIONS
Global markets are undergoing a seismic recalibration in response to a series of high-impact developments driven by U.S. policy shifts under President Trump’s administration. The introduction of sweeping tariffs—15% on the EU, 39% on Switzerland, and up to 40% on others—has shocked allies and fractured transatlantic trade relations. Key EU states like Germany and France have publicly denounced the deal, calling it a capitulation and a strategic misstep. Markets responded accordingly: the euro posted its second-largest single-day decline of the year, falling 1.1% against the dollar, while European indices such as Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 closed down 1.1% and 0.4% respectively.
Swiss equities saw strong volatility, with the Swiss Market Index falling as much as 1.9% intraday after the shock 39% tariff announcement. The Swiss franc also weakened 0.6% against the dollar, exacerbating investor anxiety. Conversely, Wall Street remained relatively buoyant with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite climbing 1.3% and 1.8% respectively, driven by expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts following weak U.S. jobs data. Treasury yields fell, with the 10-year note dipping to 4.21% and similar softening seen in German Bunds and UK gilts.
Crude oil markets were rattled by OPEC+'s surprise decision to increase production by 547,000 barrels/day starting September, marking an end to the group’s multi-year strategy of withholding supply. This triggered fears of a renewed oil glut heading into winter, especially as EV market concerns and Chinese demand weakness persist. Brent crude dipped on the announcement, compounding energy sector volatility.
STRATEGIC FORECASTS
Strategically, the trade realignment driven by the U.S. will lead to increased fragmentation in global commerce. Countries caught off-guard by Trump’s tariff decisions, such as Switzerland, India, and Taiwan, are scrambling to re-engage diplomatically. The EU appears divided, with some members pushing for aggressive countermeasures while others—primarily Germany—seek more calibrated solutions such as quotas and “offset” schemes. Trump’s approach—demanding investment pledges or unilateral concessions—risks a broader breakdown in multilateral trade norms.
We expect increased geopolitical volatility around U.S.-China relations as well. Trump has paused tech export restrictions to China in an attempt to secure a summit with Xi Jinping, temporarily soothing market nerves. However, this has sparked bipartisan backlash within the U.S. security apparatus. As a result, sectors like AI chips, semiconductors, and rare earths are now high-risk zones for both investors and policymakers.
In parallel, Tesla’s $16.5bn AI chip deal with Samsung marks a critical milestone in global tech supply chains, potentially boosting South Korea’s strategic relevance while challenging Taiwan’s TSMC dominance. This also serves as a confidence signal to global markets despite Musk’s ongoing litigation over a $56bn pay award and his volatile relationship with Trump.
FISCAL AND POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
The tariffs are already triggering fiscal consequences. The Yale Budget Lab estimates U.S. tariffs will reduce disposable income for the bottom 10% of households by 3%, compared to 1% for the top decile. Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill" tax plan is exacerbating income inequality, favoring higher-income earners with $12,000/year increases versus a $1,600 hit to the poorest households.
Politically, there is growing unrest both in the U.S. and abroad. Trump’s sacking of the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics has raised alarms about institutional independence. Germany's finance minister has openly criticized these actions, calling them a breach of democratic norms. Meanwhile, OPEC+'s decision to abandon supply cuts reflects internal cartel tensions and shifting alliances, particularly as U.S., Canadian, and Brazilian production continues to rise.
In the EU, far-right parties are seizing on the trade deal to criticize institutional weakness, while Switzerland faces internal political turmoil after being blindsided by the U.S. tariff rate. Emerging political fractures across the Western alliance could limit coordinated responses to future crises.
RISKS
Tariff Escalation Risk: With tariffs now hitting over 70% of U.S. trade partners, the risk of retaliatory measures remains elevated, particularly from China and the EU.
Institutional Credibility Risk: The politicization of U.S. economic data may erode investor confidence in official statistics, impacting bond and currency markets.
Energy Price Volatility: OPEC+’s return to production growth could overwhelm winter demand and spark a crude oil price collapse if EV adoption outpaces expectations.
Investor Confidence: Emerging market economies, particularly in Southeast Asia, are being caught in the crossfire. New “transshipment” tariffs make offshoring less attractive, compressing corporate margins.
OPPORTUNITIES
Tech Supply Chain Diversification: Samsung’s Tesla contract opens pathways for other U.S. tech firms to reduce reliance on TSMC and hedge geopolitical risk.
Rate-Cut-Driven Equity Rebound: With weak U.S. jobs data fueling Fed dovishness, global equities may benefit in the short term as investors reposition for monetary easing.
European Banks Rebound: European financials continue to outperform U.S. counterparts amid rising net interest margins, creating relative value opportunities.
Energy Exploration Investment: BP’s massive Brazilian discovery signals renewed viability for fossil fuel projects, potentially attracting capital flows back into traditional energy.
ASSET IMPACT OUTLOOK
XAUUSD (Gold)
With rising trade uncertainty, weak U.S. jobs data, and Fed dovishness, gold stands to benefit as a hedge against inflation, geopolitical turmoil, and dollar volatility.
S&P 500
Relieved by Fed dovishness and strong Big Tech earnings, but faces margin compression risks in consumer sectors and potential spillovers from Trump’s policy unpredictability.
USDJPY
Yen has started rebounding slightly, aided by safe-haven flows and a weakening dollar following poor U.S. jobs data. Volatility likely to persist as BOJ policy diverges.
DXY (US Dollar Index)
The dollar's rally has reversed on rate cut expectations and weaker labor prints. Fed's next move is critical—any surprise hawkish tone would re-ignite upside.
Crude Oil (Brent/WTI)
Supply glut fears from OPEC+ hikes, muted Chinese demand, and rising non-OPEC output suggest pressure on crude. Risk of sub-$70 if winter demand fails to materialize.
Dow Jones
Benefiting from rate-cut hopes and strong corporate earnings in financials and tech, but vulnerable to volatility from domestic political interventions and sector rotation.
Gold Holds the Trendline - Eyes on the Range HighGold remains range-bound but is climbing off the range low with strong bullish momentum. Price is respecting the trendline and could stage a move toward the top of the range. A minor pullback may offer the best entry opportunity before momentum takes it higher. This setup favors buying the dip as long as the trendline holds.
XAU
Gold (XAU/USD) – Bullish Breakout and Key Resistance Zones Ahead
Gold has recently broken out of a descending channel on the 4H timeframe, indicating a potential shift in market structure. The breakout was strong and clean, suggesting momentum is building up for further upside.
Price is now approaching a series of key resistance zones, which I’ve marked as potential short-term targets:
3387.025
3406.948 – 3409.846
3421.203
As long as price holds above the breakout zone and maintains support around 3318–3330, the bullish scenario remains intact. A rejection from the 3271 demand zone also supports this move.
I'll be watching price action closely near each resistance for signs of continuation or reversal. This idea is based purely on technical analysis and market structure.
ATH - Not in my watch for nowAs mentioned in my last post, Gold won't be pushing to break ATH unless there's an unusual catalyst that attracts it. Range bound trading is still the play, especially as we're coming into August. Save your ammunition for the Fall season, reduce your position and trade conservatively to build your equity safely. The USD has some room leg room to push higher in the short term that should hinder the yellow metal to go full bore.
XAU/USD 01 August 2025 Intraday AnalysisH4 Analysis:
-> Swing: Bullish.
-> Internal: Bullish.
You will note that price has targeted weak internal high on three separate occasions which has now formed a triple top, this is a bearish reversal pattern and proving this zone is a strong supply level. This is in-line with HTF bearish pullback phase.
Remainder of analysis and bias remains the same as analysis dated 23 April 2025.
Price has now printed a bearish CHoCH according to my analysis yesterday.
Price is now trading within an established internal range.
Intraday Expectation:
Price to trade down to either discount of internal 50% EQ, or H4 demand zone before targeting weak internal high priced at 3,500.200.
Note:
The Federal Reserve’s sustained dovish stance, coupled with ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, is likely to prolong heightened volatility in the gold market. Given this elevated risk environment, traders should exercise caution and recalibrate risk management strategies to navigate potential price fluctuations effectively.
Additionally, gold pricing remains sensitive to broader macroeconomic developments, including policy decisions under President Trump. Shifts in geopolitical strategy and economic directives could further amplify uncertainty, contributing to market repricing dynamics.
H4 Chart:
M15 Analysis:
-> Swing: Bullish.
-> Internal: Bullish.
H4 Timeframe - Price has failed to target weak internal high, therefore, it would not be unrealistic if price printed a bearish iBOS.
The remainder of my analysis shall remain the same as analysis dated 13 June 2025, apart from target price.
As per my analysis dated 22 May 2025 whereby I mentioned price can be seen to be reacting at discount of 50% EQ on H4 timeframe, therefore, it is a viable alternative that price could potentially print a bullish iBOS on M15 timeframe despite internal structure being bearish.
Price has printed a bullish iBOS followed by a bearish CHoCH, which indicates, but does not confirm, bearish pullback phase initiation. I will however continue to monitor, with respect to depth of pullback.
Intraday Expectation:
Price to continue bearish, react at either M15 supply zone, or discount of 50% internal EQ before targeting weak internal high priced at 3,451.375.
Note:
Gold remains highly volatile amid the Federal Reserve's continued dovish stance, persistent and escalating geopolitical uncertainties. Traders should implement robust risk management strategies and remain vigilant, as price swings may become more pronounced in this elevated volatility environment.
Additionally, President Trump’s recent tariff announcements are expected to further amplify market turbulence, potentially triggering sharp price fluctuations and whipsaws.
M15 Chart:
Interest rates unchanged, sticking to my bearish idea.Look at my other posts and you''ll understand as to why, I was telling everyone to sell. There was a small sellers trap, we pushed up, at that moment I already had closed my positions. Now we go down to the other key levels. I'm done till the end of August. Will still post my setups, but won't take any trades. Stay safe and keep your funds safe. Hella Love!
Gold Robbery Blueprint: Smart Bears on the Move Now!💣 XAU/USD GOLD HEIST PLAN: Robbery Begins at Resistance Zone! 🔐💰
🌟Hi! Hola! Ola! Bonjour! Hallo! Marhaba!🌟
Dear Money Makers & Market Robbers, 🕵️♂️💸🚀
Welcome to another strategic strike by Thief Trading Style™—where smart analysis meets bold execution. We're targeting XAU/USD (Gold) in this scalping/day-trade opportunity, primed with fundamentals, technicals, and pure robbery logic.
🔍 THE GAME PLAN
We're looking at a neutral zone turning bearish, and here’s how the robbery unfolds:
🔑 ENTRY POINTS
🎯 “Vault wide open” signal!
Initiate short orders at current price zones or set layered SELL LIMITS near swing highs on 15M/30M charts. We're running a DCA-style pullback entry for max loot.
🕵️♀️ Entry isn't about one shot—it's about precision raids.
🛑 STOP LOSS: THE ALARM SYSTEM
Set SL just above the nearest swing high (4H timeframe preferred).
Use candle wick tips as your defense line (Example: 3350.00).
Adjust SL based on risk appetite and number of orders stacked.
🎯 TARGET: THE GETAWAY PLAN
💸 First Vault: 3280.00
💨 Or escape earlier if price action signals reversal. Protect your gains. Professional thieves don't get greedy.
📊 WHY WE’RE ROBBING HERE
This level is a high-risk barricade zone—police aka "market makers" are strong here.
We spotted consolidation, oversold signals, trend reversal setups, and a bullish trap disguised as support. A perfect time to strike. 🧠🔍
📰 FUNDAMENTAL & SENTIMENTAL CHECKPOINTS
🔎 Stay updated with:
Global news drivers
Macro & Intermarket analysis
COT reports & future trend targets
👉 Check the 🔗🔗🔗
⚠️ TRADING ALERT - STAY SAFE DURING NEWS BOMBS!
Avoid entries during major economic data releases.
Use trailing SL to protect running profits.
Monitor volatility spikes & price anomalies.
💖 JOIN THE CREW, BOOST THE HEIST!
If this plan adds value to your trades, hit that Boost Button 💥
Support the Robberhood and help grow the gang of smart money snipers 🕶️💼💣
Every boost = more ammo for next mission. Let's rob the market—not each other. 🚀🤑
📌 Remember: Market is fluid. Stay sharp, adapt quick, and trade like a shadow.
Catch you soon in the next grand heist 🎭💼
#XAUUSD #GoldTrade #ScalpingStrategy #DayTrading #ThiefTrader #RobTheMarket #BoostForMore #NoChaseNoCase
XAU/USD 29 July 2025 Intraday AnalysisH4 Analysis:
-> Swing: Bullish.
-> Internal: Bullish.
You will note that price has targeted weak internal high on three separate occasions which has now formed a triple top, this is a bearish reversal pattern and proving this zone is a strong supply level. This is in-line with HTF bearish pullback phase.
Remainder of analysis and bias remains the same as analysis dated 23 April 2025.
Price has now printed a bearish CHoCH according to my analysis yesterday.
Price is now trading within an established internal range.
Intraday Expectation:
Price to trade down to either discount of internal 50% EQ, or H4 demand zone before targeting weak internal high priced at 3,500.200.
Note:
The Federal Reserve’s sustained dovish stance, coupled with ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, is likely to prolong heightened volatility in the gold market. Given this elevated risk environment, traders should exercise caution and recalibrate risk management strategies to navigate potential price fluctuations effectively.
Additionally, gold pricing remains sensitive to broader macroeconomic developments, including policy decisions under President Trump. Shifts in geopolitical strategy and economic directives could further amplify uncertainty, contributing to market repricing dynamics.
H4 Chart:
M15 Analysis:
-> Swing: Bullish.
-> Internal: Bullish.
H4 Timeframe - Price has failed to target weak internal high, therefore, it would not be unrealistic if price printed a bearish iBOS.
The remainder of my analysis shall remain the same as analysis dated 13 June 2025, apart from target price.
As per my analysis dated 22 May 2025 whereby I mentioned price can be seen to be reacting at discount of 50% EQ on H4 timeframe, therefore, it is a viable alternative that price could potentially print a bullish iBOS on M15 timeframe despite internal structure being bearish.
Price has printed a bullish iBOS followed by a bearish CHoCH, which indicates, but does not confirm, bearish pullback phase initiation. I will however continue to monitor, with respect to depth of pullback.
Intraday Expectation:
Price to continue bearish, react at either M15 supply zone, or discount of 50% internal EQ before targeting weak internal high priced at 3,451.375.
Note:
Gold remains highly volatile amid the Federal Reserve's continued dovish stance, persistent and escalating geopolitical uncertainties. Traders should implement robust risk management strategies and remain vigilant, as price swings may become more pronounced in this elevated volatility environment.
Additionally, President Trump’s recent tariff announcements are expected to further amplify market turbulence, potentially triggering sharp price fluctuations and whipsaws.
M15 Chart:
Report - 29 jully, 2025Summary
Initial optimism following the historic US–EU trade agreement has swiftly eroded as France and Germany openly criticized the deal, warning it undermines EU sovereignty and economic stability. The euro fell sharply, carmakers led equity declines, and political fractures within the bloc widened. While the deal averted a full-blown trade war, concerns over inflation, competitiveness, and regulatory submission have shifted sentiment. The perception of European capitulation under pressure from Trump has reignited transatlantic tensions and injected fresh volatility into global markets.
This retreat in EU support underscores the precarious nature of transatlantic cooperation under Trump’s economic nationalism. Meanwhile, signs of tech decoupling, tariff expansion beyond the EU, and deferred retaliation signal a fractured global trade order. European fiscal policy, particularly Germany’s defense-driven deficit expansion, is now under heightened scrutiny amid market volatility and FX pressure.
Market Reactions
Equity markets across the EU opened higher on tariff relief expectations but reversed course as Germany’s Chancellor Merz and France’s Prime Minister Bayrou denounced the deal. The DAX fell 1.1%, CAC 40 slipped 0.4%, and eurozone auto stocks plunged 1.8%. The euro lost over 1% against the dollar in its second-largest daily drop this year, reflecting concern over structural imbalance and political subordination.
In contrast, semiconductor stocks surged, with ASML and BE Semiconductor rising over 4% as the tech sector escaped tariffs. Wall Street remained relatively stable, buoyed by optimism around defense, energy, and tech sectors gaining from the deal. The dollar index (DXY) rose 0.9%, reflecting both euro weakness and expectations that inflationary tariffs could keep Fed rates elevated.
Fiscal and Political Implications
The backlash from Berlin and Paris lays bare deep fractures within the EU regarding its posture toward Washington. Chancellor Merz’s warning of "considerable damage" and Bayrou’s reference to EU “submission” cast doubt on Ursula von der Leyen’s negotiation strategy. The deal’s imposition of a 15% baseline tariff—triple the pre-deal weighted average—exposes Europe to substantial cost increases without achieving reciprocal liberalization.
Internally, the European Commission is accused of caving to U.S. pressure while undermining its own credibility. Documents and diplomatic leaks suggest that more aggressive retaliatory planning was watered down due to fears of a broader security rupture, particularly concerning NATO and U.S. arms support to Ukraine. This reinforces the EU’s strategic dependency, limiting its ability to resist U.S. economic coercion.
Germany’s effort to shield its auto industry via offset schemes largely failed, while Brussels’ “trade bazooka” was shelved in favor of “strategic patience.” This perceived capitulation may embolden further unilateral action from the U.S., especially as Trump eyes tariffs on pharmaceuticals and rest-of-world imports up to 20%.
Strategic Forecasts
Europe's short-term economic outlook has darkened. The tariff burden—especially on high-margin exporters like German autos—raises inflation risks while lowering competitiveness. Political backlash could destabilize Commission leadership and provoke calls for more aggressive economic sovereignty.
Expect further euro weakness, sectoral underperformance in autos and industrials, and possibly downgrades to GDP forecasts across the eurozone. On the U.S. side, Trump’s success with transatlantic leverage may embolden him to expand tariff threats to Asia and Latin America. The Fed will likely face a more inflationary policy environment, with fiscal and protectionist stimulus prolonging higher rate expectations.
Simultaneously, China's relief from U.S. tech export freezes—designed to secure a Xi-Trump summit—adds complexity to the strategic tech rivalry. The suspension of chip export controls could spur near-term capital inflows to Chinese AI firms while igniting concern in U.S. defense circles.
Risks and Opportunities
Risks
Breakdown in EU cohesion and trust in Commission leadership
Expansion of U.S. tariffs to rest of world (ROW), escalating global trade friction
Retaliation by China if U.S. chip diplomacy reverses
Drag on European industrial profits and inflation-driven ECB recalibration
Fed rate path upwardly skewed due to structural tariff-driven inflation
Opportunities
U.S. defense and energy sectors benefit from guaranteed EU purchases
Semiconductors remain shielded, with valuation support in ASML, TSMC, Nvidia
Dollar strength provides tactical trades in EURUSD, GBPUSD
Select EM exporters (e.g. Brazil) benefit from re-diversified trade flows
AI hardware and chip infrastructure (Samsung–Tesla deal) gains strategic momentum
Key Asset Impact – Outlook
XAUUSD (Gold):
Gold holding firm around $3,340. With fresh political discord and rising protectionist inflation, gold remains a hedge. If Fed signals rate hold, expect a push to $3,400.
Bias: Bullish
S&P 500:
Resilient, driven by defense, energy, and AI. But prolonged strong dollar and tariff-induced input cost pressures are risk factors.
Bias: Moderately Bullish
Dow Jones:
Benefiting from defense and dividend-heavy mix, but under pressure from industrial drag.
Bias: Neutral to Bullish
DXY (US Dollar Index):
Strengthening on euro weakness and policy divergence. However, long-term Fed autonomy concerns and political volatility could reverse trend.
Bias: Bullish short-term, Neutral longer-term
USDJPY:
Little movement today. BoJ still cautious, yen capped unless Fed shifts dovish or global risk-off resumes.
Bias: Range-bound
EURUSD:
Second-largest single-day drop YTD. Political backlash and export headwinds limit upside.
Bias: Bearish
Crude Oil (WTI):
Flat to slightly higher, supported by EU commitment to U.S. energy, but demand data remains soft.
Bias: Neutral
Stoxx Autos:
Heavy selloff (-1.8%) despite tariff reduction, reflecting margin pressure.
Bias: Bearish
ASML / BE Semiconductor:
Relief rally on tariff exclusion. Long-term tailwinds from open AI infrastructure and Samsung–Tesla chip deal.
Bias: Bullish
Gold Price Rally: Why Hedge Funds Are Making Their Biggest Bet Glimmer of Gold: Why Hedge Funds Are Making Their Biggest Bullish Bet in Months
In the complex and often turbulent theater of global finance, the movements of so-called "smart money" are watched with an eagle's eye. When these sophisticated players, particularly hedge funds, move in concert, it often signals a fundamental shift in market sentiment. Recently, a powerful signal has emerged from the depths of the commodities market: hedge funds have dramatically increased their bullish bets on gold, pushing their net long positions to a 16-week high. This aggressive positioning is not a random fluctuation; it is a calculated response to a potent cocktail of persistent geopolitical instability, simmering trade tensions, and a growing conviction that the global economic landscape is tilting in favor of the ultimate safe-haven asset.
The surge in bullish sentiment represents a significant vote of confidence in the yellow metal. It suggests that some of the world's most well-resourced and analytically driven investors are looking past the daily noise of equity markets and are instead positioning themselves for a future where security, stability, and tangible value take precedence. They are not merely dipping their toes in the water; they are making a decisive, leveraged bet that the forces buffeting the global economy will continue to drive capital towards gold's enduring allure. This move has sent ripples across the financial world, prompting investors of all stripes to ask a critical question: What does the smart money see that we should be paying attention to?
Decoding the Data: A Sharp Turn Towards Bullishness
To understand the magnitude of this shift, one must look to the weekly Commitments of Traders (COT) report published by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). This report provides a detailed breakdown of positions in the futures markets, separating traders into different categories, including "Managed Money." This category, which primarily consists of hedge funds and commodity trading advisors, is a key barometer for speculative sentiment.
The latest data reveals a sharp and decisive increase in bullish conviction. Hedge funds significantly ramped up their gross long positions—outright bets that the price of gold will rise. Simultaneously, they have been closing out their short positions—bets that the price will fall. The combination of these two actions has a powerful magnifying effect on the "net long" position, which is the difference between the number of long and short contracts.
Reaching a 16-week high is particularly noteworthy. It indicates a reversal of previous caution or bearishness and the establishment of a new, more aggressive bullish trend. For months, hedge funds may have been hesitant, weighing the prospects of higher-for-longer interest rates against emerging geopolitical risks. The current data shows that the scales have tipped decisively. This isn't a gradual accumulation; it's a forceful pivot, suggesting a high degree of conviction in the upside potential for gold. This influx of speculative capital acts as a powerful tailwind for the gold price, creating upward pressure as more funds chase the emerging momentum.
The Three Pillars of the Golden Thesis
The coordinated move by hedge funds is not based on a single factor but on a confluence of three powerful, interlocking macro-economic and geopolitical narratives. Each pillar reinforces the others, creating a compelling case for holding gold.
1. The Unsettled World: Geopolitical Risk as a Prime Catalyst
Gold has, for millennia, served as the ultimate barometer of fear. In times of peace and prosperity, its appeal can wane in favor of assets that offer growth and yield. But in an environment of escalating geopolitical tension, its value proposition becomes unparalleled. The current global landscape is rife with such tensions.
Persistent conflicts in key regions continue to create uncertainty, threatening to disrupt energy supplies, shipping lanes, and international relations. The risk of these conflicts widening or drawing in other powers keeps a floor under the demand for haven assets. Beyond active conflicts, the world is witnessing a broader realignment of global power. The rise of multi-polarity and the challenging of the post-Cold War order create a backdrop of systemic instability.
Furthermore, political uncertainty within major economies adds another layer of risk. Election cycles in dominant nations can lead to unpredictable policy shifts on everything from trade and taxation to international alliances. This policy uncertainty makes investors nervous, prompting them to allocate capital to assets that are insulated from the whims of any single government or political outcome. Gold, being a stateless monetary asset with no counterparty risk, is the natural recipient of these capital flows. Hedge funds are betting that these geopolitical undercurrents will not only persist but potentially intensify, making gold an essential portfolio hedge.
2. The Friction of Trade: A Drag on Global Growth
The era of seamless globalization has given way to a period of strategic competition and trade friction. The ongoing trade disputes between the world's largest economic blocs, most notably the United States and China, have moved beyond mere rhetoric and are now an entrenched feature of the global economy. Tariffs, export controls, and national security-driven industrial policies are disrupting long-established supply chains and creating a more fragmented and less efficient global marketplace.
This environment is a significant headwind for global economic growth. The uncertainty surrounding trade policy makes it difficult for businesses to make long-term investment decisions, dampening corporate spending and hiring. Slower global trade directly translates to slower economic growth, which in turn puts pressure on corporate earnings and equity valuations.
In this context, gold shines. As an asset that does not rely on economic growth to generate returns, it acts as a valuable diversifier in a portfolio dominated by stocks and bonds. When growth falters, gold's role as a store of value becomes more pronounced. Hedge funds are positioning for a scenario where persistent trade tensions continue to weigh on the global economy, making riskier assets less attractive and defensive assets like gold more appealing.
3. The Central Bank Pivot: Anticipating Looser Money
Perhaps the most powerful financial driver for gold is the outlook for monetary policy, particularly from the U.S. Federal Reserve. The price of gold has an inverse relationship with real interest rates (interest rates minus inflation). When real rates are high, the opportunity cost of holding a non-yielding asset like gold is also high, as investors can earn a handsome, risk-free return in government bonds. Conversely, when real rates are low or falling, the opportunity cost of holding gold diminishes, making it a more attractive investment.
For the past couple of years, central banks have been in a fierce battle against inflation, raising interest rates at an aggressive pace. However, the market is now increasingly looking ahead to the next phase of the cycle: rate cuts. While the timing is still a matter of debate, the consensus is that the next major policy move from the Fed and other major central banks will be to lower rates to support a slowing economy.
Hedge funds are front-running this anticipated pivot. They are accumulating gold now in expectation that falling interest rates in the future will provide a significant tailwind for its price. Even before the cuts materialize, the mere expectation of looser monetary policy is enough to fuel a rally. Furthermore, there is a persistent fear that central banks might make a policy error—either by keeping rates too high for too long and triggering a deep recession, or by cutting rates too soon and allowing inflation to become re-anchored. Either scenario is bullish for gold, which performs well during both economic downturns and periods of high inflation.
This speculative demand from hedge funds is layered on top of a powerful, long-term structural trend: voracious buying from the world's central banks. For several years, central banks, particularly those in emerging markets like China, India, and Turkey, have been steadily diversifying their foreign reserves away from the U.S. dollar and into physical gold. This "de-dollarization" trend is a strategic move to reduce dependence on the U.S. financial system and to hold a neutral reserve asset in an increasingly fractured world. This consistent, price-insensitive buying from official institutions creates a strong and stable floor of demand for gold, providing hedge funds with the confidence to build their own large, speculative positions on top of it.
Conclusion: A Resounding Vote for a Golden Future
The sharp increase in bullish gold bets by hedge funds is more than just a statistic; it is a story about risk, fear, and the search for security in an uncertain world. It reflects a growing consensus among sophisticated investors that the confluence of geopolitical turmoil, economic friction, and an impending shift in monetary policy has created a uniquely favorable environment for the precious metal.
These funds are acting as canaries in the coal mine, signaling a potential increase in market volatility and a flight to safety. Their aggressive positioning, backed by billions of dollars in capital, can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, driving prices higher and drawing in more waves of investors. As the world continues to grapple with deep-seated structural changes, the decision by the "smart money" to make its largest bullish wager on gold in months is a clear and resounding signal: in the quest for a safe harbor, all that glitters is, once again, gold.
Gold’s Precision Drop: Wave 5 Ignites the Bullish Reversal
---
### 🚀 **Golden Opportunity Ahead: Wave 5 Bullish Breakout Incoming!**
After perfectly completing the **bearish Gartley pattern**, gold dropped precisely to the **target zone at 3,323**, just as predicted. This move confirmed the formation of **Wave 5**, signaling the end of the corrective phase.
Now, all signs point to a **strong bullish reversal**—and the next step is a powerful rally toward the predefined targets. This is a **prime buying opportunity** for traders looking to ride the wave!
### 🎯 **Buy Zone:**
- **Entry:** Around **3,323 USD**
### 📈 **Profit Targets:**
| Target | Fibonacci Level | Price (USD) |
|--------|------------------|-------------|
| TP1 | 1.0 | 13,447.875 |
| TP2 | 1.27 | 13,536.025 |
| TP3 | 1.618 | 13,649.640 |
The link of. The previous analysis is below in the comment
---
Get liquidity at the beginning of the week, continue to decrease⭐️GOLDEN INFORMATION:
Gold (XAU/USD) continues to lose ground, slipping to around $3,335 in early Asian trading on Monday. The metal is on its fourth straight day of declines as easing geopolitical tensions and trade progress weaken safe-haven demand. Investors are now turning their focus to the upcoming FOMC policy decision on Wednesday.
Market sentiment has improved following a breakthrough in US–EU trade talks, with both sides agreeing to a uniform 15% tariff on traded goods, effectively ending months of stalemate. The new tariffs will come into effect on August 1. Meanwhile, the US and China are reportedly planning to extend their tariff truce for another three months, according to the South China Morning Post. The renewed risk appetite continues to pressure gold, traditionally favored in times of uncertainty.
⭐️Personal comments NOVA:
Short-term recovery in Asian session, gold price takes liquidity and continues to accumulate below 3369
⭐️SET UP GOLD PRICE:
🔥SELL GOLD zone: 3369- 3371 SL 3376
TP1: $3360
TP2: $3350
TP3: $3340
🔥BUY GOLD zone: $3305-$3303 SL $3298
TP1: $3314
TP2: $3330
TP3: $3342
⭐️Technical analysis:
Based on technical indicators EMA 34, EMA89 and support resistance areas to set up a reasonable SELL order.
⭐️NOTE:
Note: Nova wishes traders to manage their capital well
- take the number of lots that match your capital
- Takeprofit equal to 4-6% of capital account
- Stoplose equal to 2-3% of capital account
Gold Breakout Failed – Bearish Reversal in Play?Last week was both interesting and revealing for Gold.
After breaking above the key $3375 resistance—which also marked the upper boundary of a large triangle—price quickly accelerated higher, reaching the $3440 resistance zone.
However, instead of a bullish continuation, we witnessed a false breakout and sharp reversal. What initially looked like a healthy pullback turned into a full bearish rejection by week’s end.
________________________________________
📉 Current Technical Picture:
• On the daily chart, we now see a clear Three Black Crows formation
• On the weekly chart, a strong bearish Pin Bar confirms rejection
• And if we add the failed breakout above 3375, the bias tilts decisively bearish
________________________________________
📌 Key Zones and Trading Plan:
• Gold is currently bouncing from the ascending trendline zone, which is natural after dropping more than 1,000 pips in just 3 days
• The $3375–3380 area has regained importance as a key resistance zone, and that’s where I’ll be looking to sell rallies
• A bullish invalidation would only come if price manages to stabilize above $3400
Until then, this remains a bear-dominated market, and a drop below $3300 is on the table.
________________________________________
🧭 Support levels to watch:
• First support: $3280
• Major support: $3250 zone
________________________________________
📉 Conclusion:
The failed breakout, bearish candle formations, and current price structure all point to a market that's shifting in favor of sellers.
I’m looking to sell spikes into resistance, with a clear invalidation above $3400.
Disclosure: I am part of TradeNation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analyses and educational articles.
THE KOG REPORT - UpdateEnd of day update from us here at KOG:
That was worth waiting for! We were expecting higher to then short this into the level we wanted, but as you can see, we had no red box break and our bias level was 3335. That resistance gave us an opportunity early session to get in and then the break of the 3320 level confirmed the move completing a majority of our targets.
Now we have support here and resistance at the 3395 level and above that 3406. We have a lower level here of 3375 which we feel if targeted and rejected, could give the opportunity for a RIP into the higher levels.
KOG’s Bias of the day:
Bearish below 3450 with targets below 3420✅, 3410✅, 3406✅, 3397✅ and 3390✅
Bullish on break of 3450 with targets above 3455, 3458, 3464 and 3478
RED BOXES:
Break above 3435 for 3440, 3446, 3449 and 3461 in extension of the move
Break below 3420 for 3410✅, 3406✅, 3397✅ and 3379 in extension of the move
As always, trade safe.
KOG