Gold Price Prediction: XAU/USD struggles above $2,000 as additional Fed rate increases appear inevitable

During the Asian session, the gold price (XAU / USD) appears vulnerable above the psychological resistance of $2,000.00. Following a four-day low of $1,992.50, the precious metal has exhibited a recovery trend. However, the recovery appears precarious as bullish wagers on the US Dollar Index (DXY) limit the upside.

As the probability of a consecutive 25 basis point (bp) rate hike from the Federal Reserve (Fed) is exceedingly high, the USD Index seeks to extend its recovery above the immediate resistance of 101.75. According to the CME Fedwatch instrument, the likelihood of a rate rise is nearly 80%.

In the meantime, S&P500 futures posted significant gains early on Monday, following a moderate decline on Friday. Quarterly earnings season is anticipated to keep US equities stock-specific. As a result of the precipitous drop in petroleum prices in March, manufacturing and oil-dependent businesses could experience a reasonable earnings rebound.

The demand for U.S. government bonds has decreased considerably in response to rising wagers on additional Fed policy restrictions. President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta Raphael Bostic stated that with one more quarter-point increase in interest rates, the Fed can conclude its tightening cycle with some assurance that inflation will gradually revert to its 2% objective.