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Gold Slips as Firm Dollar, and Lower Oil Prices

Gold Slips as Firm Dollar, and Lower Oil Prices
Raghda Ahmed

July 28, 2026

Gold prices edged lower on Tuesday, as they continue to hover near the bearish channel’s upper line on the four-hour chart. If gold fails to gain positive momentum, the decline could extend toward support levels at $4,011 then $3,971. On the upside, if the price rises above the channel’s upper line, it could test resistance levels near $4,114 then $4,154. 

Global markets remained focused on geopolitical developments and monetary policy expectations on Tuesday, as easing tensions between the United States and Iran helped shape investor sentiment across financial markets. U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington is holding “good talks” with Tehran, fueling hopes for continued diplomatic progress after hostilities subsided. The improved geopolitical outlook contributed to a further decline in oil prices as fears of supply disruptions eased, while the U.S. dollar continued to trade near a one-month high, supported by expectations surrounding the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy decision. Together, these developments underscored the close link between diplomacy, energy markets, and currency movements as investors assessed the global economic outlook.

Trump: United States Holding “Good Talks” with Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump said that the United States is holding “good talks” with Iran, expressing optimism that diplomatic efforts could lead to progress while emphasizing that Washington is prepared to resume military action if negotiations fail to produce results.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said there is “a good chance” of reaching an agreement, adding that his administration is allowing diplomacy to proceed before considering any further measures.

Iran, meanwhile, confirmed that messages continue to be exchanged with the United States through intermediaries but denied reports claiming that it had directly requested the resumption of negotiations. Tehran reiterated that communications are taking place through established diplomatic channels.

Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran, as regional and international stakeholders continue efforts to reduce tensions and revive diplomatic negotiations. Observers are closely watching developments to see whether the latest round of talks will lead to tangible progress in the coming weeks.

Dollar Holds Near One-Month High

The U.S. dollar remained close to its highest level in a month during trading on Tuesday as investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision, with markets increasingly pricing in the possibility of further monetary tightening if inflationary pressures persist.

The U.S. Dollar Index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, traded near a four-week high, supported by growing expectations that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates at upcoming policy meetings.

Meanwhile, the euro and the British pound posted limited movements against the dollar, while the Japanese yen weakened as investors continued to assess the impact of global economic developments and geopolitical risks on the outlook for monetary policy.

Market participants are also awaiting the release of key U.S. economic data, along with the Federal Reserve’s policy statement and comments from its officials, which are expected to provide fresh signals on the future path of interest rates and the direction of the U.S. dollar in the coming weeks.

Oil Extends Decline as U.S.-Iran Attacks Cease

Oil prices continued to decline on Tuesday as concerns over potential supply disruptions eased following the halt in hostilities between the United States and Iran, boosting market expectations that tensions in the Middle East may continue to subside.

Brent crude and U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures extended their losses as traders reduced the geopolitical risk premium that had supported prices during the recent escalation. The absence of new military confrontations between Washington and Tehran also weighed on crude markets.

Analysts said that improving security conditions in the region have helped ease fears of supply disruptions, particularly as oil production and shipping routes have remained largely unaffected. The calmer geopolitical environment has encouraged investors to reassess the outlook for global energy markets.

At the same time, market participants continue to monitor diplomatic contacts between the United States and Iran, while awaiting upcoming central bank decisions and key economic data releases that could provide further insight into global oil demand and the future direction of crude prices.

Looking Ahead

Markets are closely awaiting the release of the U.S. Consumer Confidence Index, a key economic indicator that provides insight into household sentiment, spending expectations, and the overall health of the economy. Investors will be watching the data for signals about consumer resilience amid ongoing concerns over inflation, interest rates, and economic growth. A stronger-than-expected reading could reinforce confidence in the U.S. economic outlook and support the dollar, while a weaker result may raise concerns about slowing consumer activity and influence expectations for the Federal Reserve’s future policy decisions.