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Gold loses its luster as easing geopolitical tensions weigh on safe-haven demand

Gold loses its luster as easing geopolitical tensions weigh on safe-haven demand
Raghda Ahmed

May 19, 2026

Gold prices continue to face downward pressure on Tuesday as they remain below $4600. The yellow metal is currently trading below the bearish channel’s middle line, if it settles below this level, the decline could extend toward support levels at $4514 then $4484. On the upside, if the price manages to break above the channel’s middle line, it may test resistance levels near $4602 then $4633.

Global markets are witnessing a state of caution and anticipation amid growing political and economic developments in the United States and the Middle East. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the postponement of the planned attack on Iran to allow more time for diplomatic efforts, while Kevin Warsh prepares to assume the Federal Reserve chairmanship on Friday amid expectations of tighter monetary policy. Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury bonds stabilized after two days of heavy selling, as investors closely monitor Federal Reserve policy moves, interest rate expectations, and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Market Watch

Trump pauses planned attack on Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump announced the postponement of a planned military strike against Iran, saying the decision was made to allow diplomacy and ongoing negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program more time.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said the attack had been scheduled to take place within hours but was temporarily suspended following requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE to give diplomatic efforts another chance. He added that there had been a “very positive development” in communications with Tehran, while stressing that military action remains an option if negotiations fail.

According to media reports, the U.S. administration had already prepared several military scenarios in coordination with national security advisers amid rising regional tensions over recent days. Reports also indicated that Israel had been informed of the postponement decision, while U.S. forces in the region remain on high alert.

Iranian officials, meanwhile, confirmed the continuation of indirect talks with Washington, emphasizing that dialogue does not mean compromising on Tehran’s nuclear rights. U.S. officials reportedly described Iran’s latest proposals as “insufficient” so far.

The development comes as the Middle East remains on edge, with regional and international mediation efforts continuing in an attempt to avoid a broader military escalation that could impact global energy markets and regional stability.

Kevin Warsh to be sworn in as Fed chair on Friday

Economist Kevin Warsh is preparing to officially assume the role of Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve on Friday, marking a significant shift in the leadership of U.S. monetary policy during a period of persistent inflationary pressures and growing geopolitical tensions.

U.S. media reports stated that President Donald Trump will oversee Warsh’s swearing-in ceremony at the White House following Senate approval of his appointment as the new Federal Reserve Chair, succeeding Jerome Powell. Warsh, 56, is considered one of the most prominent figures in American economic circles, having previously served as a member of the Federal Reserve Board during the 2008 global financial crisis.

Financial markets are closely watching Warsh’s stance on interest rates and monetary policy, especially as inflation and energy prices remain elevated. Analysts also expect the new Fed Chair to face increasing political and economic pressure during upcoming Federal Reserve meetings.

According to economic reports, Warsh’s first meeting as Federal Reserve Chairman is expected to take place next month, while markets remain divided over the outlook for U.S. interest rates during the second half of the year.

U.S. bonds stabilize after a two-day selloff

U.S. Treasury bond prices stabilized during today’s trading session after markets experienced two consecutive days of heavy selling that pushed yields to their highest levels in several months amid growing concerns over inflation and U.S. monetary policy.

Trading activity showed signs of relative calm, with the yield on the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note easing slightly to around 4.60% after surging in previous sessions due to widespread selling driven by expectations that interest rates may remain higher for longer.

Analysts said markets have begun to absorb the impact of the latest U.S. inflation data, as well as growing anticipation surrounding incoming Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, who is expected to officially assume office later this week.

The relative easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following President Donald Trump’s decision to delay the planned attack on Iran also helped reduce pressure on global bond markets and supported stability in trading.

Investors believe Treasury market movements in the coming days will remain closely tied to interest rate expectations and upcoming U.S. economic data, amid ongoing concerns that inflation may remain elevated.

Looking Ahead

Global financial markets are closely monitoring the latest developments in the Middle East amid rising geopolitical tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran. Investor sentiment remains cautious following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to postpone a planned military strike on Iran, while regional mediation attempts continue in hopes of preventing a broader conflict. Market participants are also assessing the potential impact of any escalation on oil prices, global inflation, and safe-haven assets such as gold and U.S. Treasury bonds. Analysts believe that developments in the region are likely to remain a key driver of market volatility in the coming days.