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Gold, silver and copper experienced losses on the markets today, while Brent crude rose slightly.
Gold futures sank $5.25, to $1,312.30 an ounce, on the COMEX in New York, according to Bloomberg. Gold prices in London were also down $7.86, to $1,309.31 an ounce.
“There is a complete lack of interest as of late in the precious metals market,” David Govett, head of precious metals at Marex Spectron Group in London, wrote in a report. “If there is no resolution over the weekend then the market should remain supported and find some buying next week. If there is a resolution, then look for a drop.”
Gold is down 21 percent for the year, Bloomberg said.
Silver fell as well today. Futures for December delivery were down $0.11, to $21.68 an ounce, Bloomberg reported.
Copper also saw losses today on the London Metal Exchange. The metal lost $94 in London, falling to $7,185 a tonne. In New York, however, copper gained $0.04 to hit $3.31 a pound, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Investors were optimistic that Chinese traders would return from their holiday next week and buy the metal. China is the top copper consumer, accounting for 40 percent of global copper consumption.
“Once the Chinese come back to office next Monday, some buying interest might show up,” said Richard Fu, head of Asian commodities trading at Newedge, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Brent crude oil prices increased slightly today as a tropical storm approached US oil-producing areas in the Gulf of Mexico, Reuters reported. Brent rose $0.05, to $109.12 a barrel.
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