Central Bank Independence Under Scrutiny
A dramatic Sunday reveal by Jerome Powell regarding criminal threats over his Senate testimony has sparked a crisis of confidence in central bank independence. Investors are hedging against potential 'Trump-pressured' rate cuts, which would significantly lower real yields and devalue the dollar.
Geopolitical Convergence
The U.S. military presence in Venezuela and threats of strikes against Iranian targets have created a 'perfect storm' for bullion. Morgan Stanley has upgraded its year-end forecast to $4,800, citing that structural demand from central banks—led by China—is showing no signs of slowing.