U.S.–Japan Framework Eases Tariff Threats but Leaves Key Details Unanswered

Markets are holding their breath ahead of today’s delayed PCE inflation report—the Fed’s preferred gauge and final data point before next week’s rate decision. Gold is consolidating near $4,235 while silver holds near record highs after hitting $58.98 this week. Meanwhile, Treasury bonds are suffering their worst week since June as yields climb on inflation concerns. Consumer sentiment remains stuck near multi-year lows, with Americans anxious about job security despite Fed rate cut expectations.

Silver pulled back from an all-time high of $58.98 while gold consolidated near $4,200 as traders await next week’s Federal Reserve meeting. Markets are pricing in an 89% chance of a rate cut, while mixed labor data and plunging oil prices signal both resilience and caution in the global economy.