Gold glitters as US election nerves grow, strong dollar dents stocks

Gold prices reached record highs on Wednesday, defying the dollar's strength, which has pressured both the yen and the euro. Meanwhile, global stock markets dipped as investors hesitated to make significant moves ahead of the upcoming U.S. election in two weeks.

Recent U.S. economic data has suggested continued growth, leading investors to reconsider the extent to which the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates.

U.S. Treasuries have faced declines, resulting in three-month high yields, driving the dollar to multi-month peaks against the euro, pound, and yen, which is now trading at around 150 per dollar, prompting caution from Japanese officials.

Despite the slight downturn in stocks, the market remains close to record highs, indicating that investors are currently optimistic about the economy and corporate earnings. The MSCI All-World Index was down 0.1%, mirroring similar declines in Europe and U.S. futures.

With the election just weeks away, market volatility is anticipated. Betting odds have recently shifted in favor of Donald Trump over Kamala Harris, though opinion polls indicate a tightly contested race. Investors are particularly attentive to the potential impact of another Trump presidency, especially his proposed tariffs and immigration restrictions, which could drive inflation higher.