Businesses 'On Pause' Amid Washington's Policy Uncertainty

Richmond Federal Reserve President Thomas Barkin has warned that both businesses and consumers are currently stalled by a lack of clarity coming out of Washington. Describing the environment as “a dense fog,” Barkin said many organisations are feeling “on pause,” “frozen,” or “paralysed” while they wait for clearer signals on policy direction. The uncertainty is leading to delayed decision-making and subdued investment across sectors. He compared the situation to driving in zero visibility, where the best decision might be to slow down or even stop to avoid veering off course. The sentiment reflects broader caution across the U.S. economy, with the Fed itself in no rush to make any sudden changes to interest rates.

That caution is echoed by other Federal Reserve officials. Susan Collins, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, supports keeping rates on hold for a longer period, arguing that sustained higher rates are needed to ensure inflation is truly tamed. Her comments come alongside remarks from Narayana Kocherlakota, who expressed concern that inflation stemming from Trump’s new tariffs might not be as transitory as some believe. These pressures could place the Fed in a difficult position if inflation proves sticky while economic growth continues to slow.

Meanwhile, at home, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially called a federal election for 3 May, kicking off a five-week campaign that will centre heavily on cost-of-living relief and energy policy. Albanese is positioning his government as the steady hand on the tiller, pointing to a cooling inflation rate, rising wages, and a series of targeted investments in housing, aged care, and clean energy. The opposition, led by Peter Dutton, will focus on immigration reform, housing availability, and a controversial pitch to reintroduce nuclear power to the national energy mix. The campaign is expected to get personal and economic very quickly, with both leaders staking their credibility on who can ease pressure on Australian families.

Gold and Silver continue their movements higher, with Gold yet again reaching another all time high through the week.

Enjoy today’s technical forecast below.

Market Snapshot

• Gold – $US3054
• Silver – $US34.39
• US500 – 5685
• ASX200 – 7952
• AUD/USD – 0.63

Gold Futures Technical Analysis  

Technical indicators for Gold Futures suggest a STRONG BUY on both monthly and weekly analyses.  

Technical Indicators - Monthly Projections  

Summary for Monthly Forecast: Strong Buy  

*Not financial advice; please conduct your own research before making any investment decisions.*