Gold Price Prediction Ahead of March 18 FOMC Meeting

Gold price hovered at $5,171 on Sunday after surge buying pushed bullion sharply higher in the previous session. The metal advanced by $21.62, marking a 0.42% daily increase. Silver price also surged to 84.54, adding 0.39% during the same period.

The precious metal stood its ground following fluctuating trade in the previous week. The Gold price momentarily reached a high of 5,176 and entered a small range of consolidation. The lowest point of the day is set at around 5,150, which indicates mild changes in mood.

Macroeconomic signs are now being considered by market participants even before a major policy event. New information and international risks have redefined interest rate anticipation.

FOMC Meeting Outlook and Policy Expectations

The upcoming FOMC Meeting on March 17 and 18 has drawn intense global attention. Investors are awaiting guidance on the future path of borrowing costs. The policy statement is scheduled for release at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will speak at 2:30 p.m. Eastern following the announcement. His remarks often shape short-term market direction. Updated economic projections will also be published alongside the decision.

Traders are closely watching the so-called dot plot for rate clues. That chart outlines policymakers’ expectations for future interest levels. Weak labor data has increased speculation about potential easing later this year.

Recent Nonfarm Payroll figures showed a loss of 92,000 jobs in February. Economists had expected a modest increase in employment. The unemployment rate edged higher to 4.4%.

That figure remains slightly below the Federal Reserve’s 4.5% projection for 2026. Still, markets interpreted the report as a sign of cooling momentum. Rate cut expectations have risen toward 43 basis points.

Gold price initially climbed over 1% after the labor release. However, a firm US dollar and elevated yields limited further gains.

Crypto Market, Upcoming Events, and Broader Sentiment

The broader financial landscape remains mixed ahead of several major data releases. The global crypto market declined 1.02% over the past 24 hours. Total capitalization stands near $2.3 trillion.

Bitcoin price hovered below $69,000 during the latest session. Ethereum traded steadily above $1,700. Digital assets have struggled to regain strong upside traction.

Investors are also preparing for key inflation and growth indicators next week. Reports will include consumer inflation, housing figures, and GDP updates. Durable Goods Orders and Initial Jobless Claims are also due.

Markets will pay special attention to the Core PCE Price Index. That gauge is the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure.

Gold Price Prediction: Will XAU/USD Surge To $5,200?

Technically, bullion remains near important resistance around $5,180. A sustained break above that zone could open the path toward $5,200.

In case buyers achieve momentum above $5,200, projections can stretch to $5240. Additional strength can push Gold price outlook up to 5,280 during future sessions.

On the downside, initial support stands near $5,150. Stronger protection is located around $5,100. A decisive drop under $5,100 may expose gold to $5,060 once again for Gold price. Market direction now hinges on policy signals and incoming economic data.