Gold prices moved slightly higher during Monday’s Asian trading session, reaching their highest levels in nearlyseven weeks. This upward movement was mainly supported by growing expectations that theUS Federal Reserve may begin cutting interest rates next year. Lower interest rates generally make gold more attractive, as the metal does not offer interestand becomes less costly to hold when borrowing costs fall.

In addition, ongoing global uncertainty has encouraged investors to seek safe-haven assets, further supporting demand for gold. However, gains remain somewhat limited, as recent hawkish comments from Federal Reserve officials have strengthened the US dollar, which can put pressure on dollar-priced commodities such as gold.

Market participants are now closely watching upcoming speeches by Federal Reserve Governor Stephen Miran and New York Fed President John Williams for further policy signals. Attention will also shift to the US employment data for October and November, due on Tuesday. Key indicators such as Nonfarm Payrolls, average hourly earnings, and the unemployment rate are expected to offer clearer insight into the health of the US labor market and help shape expectations for the Fed’s January policy meeting.