Morgan Stanley's Gower: Fed Holding Rates Through '26

Amy Gower, Morgan Stanley Lead Metals & Mining Strategist, discussed the firm's house view on interest rates and its implications for gold. Morgan Stanley expects the Federal Reserve to keep rates on hold through 2026, contrasting with market expectations of approximately 1.6 rate hikes by year-end. Gower emphasized that the Fed's policy decisions will be crucial for gold's trajectory, particularly given the significant role of exchange traded funds (ETFs) in gold demand, which closely track Fed actions. A stable rate environment would support gold, while further rate hikes could trigger increased ETF selling, potentially weighing on gold prices. (Source: Bloomberg)