Gold soars in April as top central banks fight pandemic's damage

[SINGAPORE] Gold is heading for the biggest monthly gain since 2016 as top central banks ramp up stimulus to repair the economic damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic, boosting the metal's allure as a store of value.

Bullion traded near the highest since 2012 after Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell on Wednesday voiced concern the crisis could leave permanent scars on the US economy, while leaving interest rates near zero. Next up, the European Central Bank decides on Thursday if more action is needed amid the historic slump. Earlier this week, the Bank of Japan added stimulus.

Gold has rallied in 2020 as investors sought havens amid the economic downturn triggered by the outbreak, with the unprecedented monetary and fiscal stimulus sparking concerns about currency debasement. Worldwide holdings in exchange-traded funds have swelled to a record, aided by forecasts that prices have scope for more gains. Bullion's advance this month means that it's risen alongside risk assets including equities.

Futures rose as much as 1.1 per cent to US$1,732 an ounce on the Comex and traded at US$1,726.40 at 8.44am in Singapore. Spot prices were steady at US$1,711.47, up 8.5 per cent in April. Two weeks ago, immediate delivery metal hit US$1,747.36, the highest since November 2012.

In his remarks, Mr Powell repeatedly called the policy stance "appropriate", noting the Fed has promised to keep rates near zero until it is confident the economy is on track to achieve the central bank's goals of maximum employment and price stability.

Investors were also weighing signs of progress in treating the virus after Gilead Sciences said its experimental drug helped Covid-19 patients recover faster. The Food and Drug Administration plans to announce emergency use authorisation for the drug, The New York Times reported.

GET BT IN YOUR INBOX DAILY

Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign UpVIEW ALL

In other precious metals, spot silver and platinum have risen in April, while palladium is set for the biggest monthly loss since 2015.

BLOOMBERG