Gold (XAU/USD) traded steadily near $4,820 on Thursday, showing minor gains in an 'inside day' pattern, with price action remaining within Wednesday's range and resistance capped at the $4,850 level [1]. The market was supported by renewed hopes for peace talks between the US and Iran, after US President Donald Trump confirmed ongoing negotiations and expressed confidence that discussions could resume in the coming days [1]. However, optimism was tempered by continued tensions, as the US Central Command announced the closure of traffic in and out of Iran's ports to pressure Tehran, prompting Iran's military to threaten shutting sea traffic in the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and Sea of Oman, raising doubts about the ceasefire [1].
Technical analysis indicates that XAU/USD maintains a near-term bullish bias, but remains capped below the top of the recent horizontal channel at $4,850 [1]. Momentum indicators are mixed, with the 4-hour Relative Strength Index at 59 (positive territory), while the MACD suggests consolidation rather than a clear reversal [1]. A break above $4,850 would target the $5,000 area, with further upside toward the March 10 high at $5,235 [1]. On the downside, support is seen just below $4,800, with key support at $4,600; a break below this level would negate the bullish view and could lead to further declines toward the March 26 lows at $4,350 [1].
No specific analyst opinions or forward-looking statements beyond the technical outlook were provided in the article [1].
CONCLUSION
Gold prices remain supported by hopes for renewed US-Iran peace talks, but ongoing geopolitical tensions are capping gains below key resistance levels. Technical indicators suggest a cautiously bullish outlook, with significant upside and downside levels clearly defined. Market sentiment is moderately positive, but further developments in US-Iran relations will be crucial for the next directional move.