I’m regularly trading in gold so this week I thought it would be interesting to broaden our knowledge of gold. Even though we are mostly Forex focused, a lot can still be learned from understanding the movement and characteristics of gold.

Trading in gold 

Gold has historically exhibited cyclical patterns in its price movements (cycles can be observed over long periods of time). The cyclical pattern of gold is influenced by a range of factors, including global economic conditions, inflation, interest rates, and currency movements. A common pattern that gold exhibits is a “boom and bust” cycle. During a boom period, the demand for gold typically rises, as investors seek a safe haven investment during times of economic uncertainty. This increased demand leads to an increase in the price of gold.

As the economic conditions stabilize and the demand for gold decreases, gold prices typically drop, leading to a bust period. During a bust period, the price of gold may drop significantly, leading to decreased demand and further drops in price. In addition to the boom and bust cycle, gold can also exhibit longer-term cycles. For example, gold may enter a bear market that can last for several years, during which the price of gold can decline significantly. It can also enter a bull market that can last for several years, during which the price of gold can rise significantly.

It is important to note that gold cycles are not always consistent, and there may be periods where gold does not follow these patterns. Additionally, there are many other factors that can impact the price of gold, such as geopolitical events, mining supply, and changes in central bank policies.

Who holds the most gold?

As of 2021, the United States holds the largest gold reserves in the world, with approximately 8,133.5 metric tons of gold. Germany comes in second place with around 3,363.6 metric tons of gold, while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) holds the third largest amount of gold reserves with around 2,814 metric tons. Other countries with significant gold reserves include Italy, France, Russia, China, Switzerland, and Japan.

trading in gold

Who mines the most gold?

As of 2021, China is the world’s largest gold producer, mining an estimated 365 metric tons of gold in that year. Other countries with significant gold mining operations include Australia, Russia, the United States, Canada, Peru, Ghana, South Africa, and Uzbekistan. The amount of gold produced by each country can vary from year to year based on factors such as mining techniques, labor issues, environmental regulations, and fluctuations in the price of gold.

Gold and Forex correlation?

There is a well-established correlation between gold prices and foreign exchange (forex) rates, although the strength and direction of this correlation can vary depending on a number of factors. In general, gold prices tend to rise when the value of the US dollar falls, and vice versa. Gold is priced in US dollars and a weaker dollar makes gold relatively cheaper for buyers using other currencies, which can increase demand for gold and push up its price. Similarly, when the US dollar strengthens, gold becomes more expensive for buyers using other currencies, which can reduce demand for gold and cause its price to fall.

Other factors can also influence the relationship between gold prices and forex rates. For example, geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and changes in monetary policy can all affect both gold prices and forex rates, sometimes in different ways. Additionally, some currencies (such as the Swiss franc) are often considered safe-haven assets, meaning that they may also experience price increases during times of economic or political turmoil, potentially affecting the correlation between gold and forex.

Overall, while there is a general correlation between gold prices and forex rates, it is important to consider a range of factors when analysing this relationship and making investment decisions.