Gold’s Sudden, Newfound Relative Strength
Three weeks ago we discussed how Gold needed to perform considering the US$ index was likely to bounce due to an oversold condition and extreme bearish sentiment.
We wrote: “Simply put, Gold will have to prove itself in real terms if it is going to hold its ground or breakout as the US$ begins a likely bounce.”
The US$ index has enjoyed only a slight rebound but Gold has maintained its 2017 US$ weakness induced gains because of its strong relative performance. Below we plot the daily line chart of Gold and a number of ratios: Gold against foreign currencies (Gold/FC), Gold against Equities and Gold against Bonds. Since the July low, Gold has showed good nominal and relative performance.
The key has been the strong rebound in Gold/FC and the breakout in Gold/Equities. Gold/FC has broken above two trendlines and is now testing its 200-day moving average. Meanwhile, Gold/Equities has broken above one trendline and has regained its 200-day moving average. It would be very bullish for Gold if Gold/FC pushed through its 200-day moving average while Gold/Equities pushed above trendline 2. Those moves would likely accompany a Gold breakout through $1300/oz but more importantly, they would put Gold in a position of trading above its 200-day moving average in nominal terms and against the major asset classes (stocks, bonds, currencies).
Although Gold failed to break above $1300/oz today (Friday), it remains in position to do so because of its renewed strength in real terms. As long as the US$ index does not rally hard, we expect Gold to break above $1300 and reach $1375. The gold stocks as a group have been lagging recently but in the event of a Gold breakout, we foresee significant upside potential as the group could play catch up. Consider learning more about our premium service including our favorite junior exploration companies.
Jordan Roy-Byrne CMT, MFTA
