How the Fed rate pause will affect the gold price

What will the Fed's decision to pause its rate rising cycle mean for the precious metals and equity markets? History can provide some insights.

As we predicted in a July market update to our clients, on August 8th the U.S Federal Reserve left interest rates untouched. The pause ended the streak of seventeen straight interest rate hikes that began in June of 2004. The Fed funds rate, which was at a forty-six year low of 1% at the start of the rate hike campaign, is now at 5.25%.

The Fed justified the pause by stating: "Economic growth has moderated from its quite strong pace earlier this year." It also implicated "a gradual cooling of the housing market and the lagged effects of increases in interest rates and energy prices" as factors slowing growth.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/mw70aro6gl1676370748.jpg

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up
Explore More
MoneyWeek

MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.