Where is inflation headed? The five-year breakeven rate (5-Year Treasury Yield minus 5-year TIPS) is hovering around 1.80 percent, close to the latest readings for core CPI. The market is anticipating low inflation for the next few years.
Long-term interest rates are rising in anticipation of Fed tightening. 10-Year Treasury yields, in a primary up-trend, are retracing to test their new support level at 2.25%. Respect is likely and would signal an advance to long-term resistance at 3.0 percent. Rising 13-week Twiggs Momentum crossed above zero, strengthening the signal.
Gold
Low inflation reduces demand for gold as an inflation-hedge, while rising interest rates increase its carrying cost for speculators and the opportunity cost for investors. These factors are exerting downward pressure on gold prices. The spot price recovered above medium-term support at $1180/ounce, but the breach continues to warn of a test of the primary level at $1140. 13-Week Twiggs Momentum peaking below zero also suggests continuation of the primary down-trend. Failure of $1140 would offer a long-term target of $1000*.
* Target calculation: 1200 – ( 1400 – 1200 ) = 1000
The Gold Bugs Index, representing un-hedged gold stocks, is testing primary support at 155. Breach of support would strengthen the warning.
