Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has indicated that due to persistently high inflation, anticipated interest rate cuts might be postponed to later this year, potentially maintaining higher rates for an extended period. Speaking at the Wilson Center, Powell expressed concerns that recent data do not confirm inflation is under control and hinted it may take longer than previously expected to stabilize. He emphasized that if high inflation continues, the Fed is prepared to keep interest rates elevated as necessary. This stance suggests that the Fed might implement fewer rate reductions than th ..read more

The economy might be booming, but housing is in a recession: Top real estate CEO says he’s never seen anything like it in 20 years ..read more

The Silver Institute's annual World Silver Survey, conducted by UK-based Metals Focus, projects the silver market it to experience its second-largest deficit in two decades in 2024. This forecast is driven by a record 9% increase in industrial demand, expected to reach 710.9 million ounces, with the solar sector playing a crucial role. Demand for silver in photovoltaic (PV) solar panels alone is anticipated to surge by 20% to 232 million ounces. As a result, robust demand continues to surpass supply, supporting high silver prices and leading to a further depletion of above-ground stocks ..read more

According to Bank of France Governor Villeroy, speaking to CNBC, the European Central Bank (ECB) should consider cutting interest rates in June, provided there are no major surprises. This statement aligns with recent signals from the ECB suggesting readiness for a rate cut due to a more confident outlook on the disinflationary trajectory in the euro area. Despite maintaining interest rates at record highs during its last five meetings, the ECB has indicated that diminishing inflation pressures might soon warrant a reduction in rates ..read more

There’s a lot of hype about Costco’s gold bar sales lately...what is it all about? Why are Costco selling gold and silver bars in the first place ..read more

The Silver Institute has released its 2024 World Silver Survey, continuing its tradition since 1990 of providing a detailed annual analysis of the global silver market. This report offers a comprehensive overview of the past year’s silver demand dynamics and supply sources. For over three decades, the World Silver Survey has served as a reliable resource, extensively cited by industry experts, government bodies, and media for insights into the silver market ..read more

The Biden administration is set to reimpose oil sanctions on Venezuela due to President Nicolas Maduro's failure to fulfill election commitments. This decision comes as the U.S. opts not to renew a license that previously eased sanctions on Venezuela's oil sector. With the license expiring, the U.S. Treasury Department has issued a temporary 45-day license to allow companies to conclude their operations in Venezuela's oil and gas industry. This move follows threats by Washington to reinstate energy sanctions if Maduro did not honor the commitments that had initially led to a partial lifting of ..read more

Morgan Stanley asserts that the U.S. dollar will maintain its status as the dominant global reserve currency, despite facing various challenges and potential rivals, notably the Chinese yuan. Recent geopolitical tensions, such as Russia's conflict in Ukraine and domestic issues like the U.S. debt ceiling debates, have raised questions about the dollar's supremacy. However, the dollar's extensive influence across numerous economic and financial areas continues to be a significant factor in its favor. While some nations may explore alternatives due to the U.S.'s fiscal outlook and its frequent u ..read more

U.S. crude oil prices dropped below $83 as tensions in the Middle East showed signs of easing, with Israel holding off on an immediate retaliation against Iran following last weekend's unprecedented air assault. This restraint has reduced fears of a major conflict in the region, leading to a decline in oil prices for the fourth consecutive day. The West Texas Intermediate contract for May fell to $82.34 a barrel, while June Brent futures decreased to $86.77 a barrel. This week, oil prices have decreased by 4%, as traders reduce the geopolitical risk premium that had escalated over the previous ..read more

Despite Zimbabwe's rich gold reserves, the change in leadership from Robert Mugabe to Emmerson Mnangagwa has not resolved the country's deep-rooted problems. After Mugabe's 37-year rule ended in a 2017 coup, Mnangagwa, his former vice president, took power amid high expectations. However, Mnangagwa's tenure has mirrored Mugabe's, with the economy continuing to stagnate and political oppression persisting. The anticipated revolution has failed to materialize, leaving the country in a state similar to its condition under Mugabe's kleptocratic governance ..read more