Gold and Silver Industry & Investing News

The US dollar weakened against major currencies on Monday as investors became more optimistic about potential trade deals between the United States and other countries. This optimism increased expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates sooner, with markets now pricing in a 93.3% chance of a rate cut by September. The dollar fell to multi-year lows against the euro, British pound, and Swiss franc after the White House made progress on trade negotiations with China and Canada.

Australian researchers have created a toxin-free method to extract gold from ore and e-waste. The breakthrough uses a safe water treatment compound activated by saltwater to dissolve gold, which is then captured by a reusable polymer. This eliminates the need for deadly chemicals like cyanide and mercury that have long poisoned water sources and threatened health, revolutionizing sustainable mining.

Gold posted modest gains on Monday, climbing 0.3% to $3,284.98 per ounce, breaking a two-week losing streak. The precious metal benefited from a 0.2% decline in the US dollar as markets closely watch two key developments: ongoing Senate negotiations over President Trump’s massive $4.5 trillion tax bill and trade talks with multiple nations. The tax package faces resistance from fiscal conservatives concerned about ballooning deficits, with voting expected to extend into Monday. On the trade front, uncertainty remains high with just 10 days until Trump’s country-specific tariffs resume on July 9. While White House advisers suggest progress on several trade...

Gold prices rose 0.4% to $3,287.29 per ounce on Monday, supported by a weakening U.S. dollar that hit its lowest level in over three years. The precious metal has gained 5.3% this quarter as investors anticipate Federal Reserve rate cuts beginning in September. Markets are closely watching upcoming U.S. jobs data, including Wednesday’s ADP report and Thursday’s non-farm payrolls, which could influence the Fed’s decisions on interest rates. President Trump’s recent comments about preferring Fed leadership that supports lower rates have also contributed to gold’s strength.

US consumer sentiment jumped to a 4-month high of 60.7 in June, marking the largest monthly increase since early 2024. The improvement was driven by better inflation expectations, with consumers now expecting prices to rise 5% over the next year (down from 6.6% in May). Long-term inflation expectations also fell to 4%. Despite the gains, sentiment remains below year-start levels, and 57% of consumers still expect unemployment to rise. The survey suggests consumers feel their worst economic fears may not materialize, though concerns about tariffs and their potential impact on prices and employment persist.

The world’s top central bankers from the US, Europe, Britain, Japan, and South Korea will meet in Sintra, Portugal next week to discuss global economic issues. While inflation appears controlled in most countries, the bigger concern is whether President Trump’s protectionist policies could threaten the US dollar’s 80-year dominance in global finance. Fed Chair Jerome Powell faces particular scrutiny as he resists Trump’s pressure to cut interest rates, with fears that any threat to the Fed’s independence could weaken the dollar’s status as the world’s preferred currency.

The World Gold Council (WGC) is launching a major digital initiative to transform the gold market. CEO David Tait revealed that 50% of people don’t trust gold and 60% don’t understand how to invest in it safely. To address these issues, the WGC is partnering with the London Bullion Market Association to create a blockchain-based database that tracks gold from mine to market. This “Gold Bar Integrity” system will ensure gold is responsibly sourced and refined, making the market more transparent and trustworthy. The goal is to standardize the fragmented global gold market and make it more attractive to investors.

The Silver Institute’s comprehensive World Silver Survey 2025 reveals another year of historic deficit for the white metal, marking the fifth consecutive year of supply shortages. The 92-page report shows the global silver market recorded a deficit of 148.9 million ounces in 2024 (down from 200.6 million ounces in 2023), with industrial demand reaching a new record high of 680.5 million ounces. Key highlights include: Silver prices averaged $28.27/oz in 2024, up 21% year-over-year and the highest since 2012 Industrial fabrication hit another all-time high, driven by solar panels, 5G technology, and automotive electronics Global mine production rose modestly by...

Starting July 1, 2025, minimum wage workers in 15 states and cities will see pay increases, with Alaska, Oregon, and Washington D.C. leading the way. Over 880,000 workers will collectively earn $397 million more annually. Alaska’s minimum wage jumps from $11.91 to $13, Oregon’s rises from $14.70 to $15.05, and D.C.’s increases from $17.50 to $17.95. Major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco will also see increases. While 30 states now exceed the federal minimum of $7.25, some lawmakers are attempting to limit voter-approved wage hikes, as seen in Missouri and Nebraska.

Oil prices are heading for their biggest weekly drop in over two years, falling about 12% this week. Despite rising slightly on Friday, Brent crude sits around $68 per barrel and WTI at $66. The sharp decline came after the Iran-Israel ceasefire announcement removed fears of supply disruptions, eliminating the risk premium that had briefly pushed prices above $80. With geopolitical tensions easing, the market has refocused on supply-demand fundamentals, including upcoming OPEC+ production decisions and strong inventory drawdowns in key regions.