Gold prices slipped on Thursday after failing to break the key level of $4,100 per ounce, but they are still waiting for some positive momentum to rise in the near term. If gold finds positive support, it could surpass the daily pivot point of $4,067 then test resistance levels at $4,108 and $4,134. On the downside, if the price continues to fall, it may test support levels near $4,007 then $3,978.
Global markets and geopolitical tensions took center stage today as a series of major developments unfolded across the international landscape. The United States launched a new round of military strikes on Iran, escalating security concerns in the Middle East and raising fears of broader regional instability. At the same time, the U.S. Federal Reserve opted to keep interest rates unchanged, signaling a cautious approach as policymakers continue to assess inflation and economic growth. Meanwhile, oil prices climbed sharply as investors reacted to the intensifying airstrikes in the Middle East, fueling concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies and increasing volatility across financial markets.
Market Watch
United States Launches New Strikes on Iran
The United States launched a new wave of airstrikes on Iran today, Thursday, July 30, 2026, targeting dozens of military sites belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the latest escalation between Washington and Tehran.
According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes targeted command centers, missile and drone facilities, as well as coastal defense positions. The operation was reportedly carried out in response to an Iranian missile attack on U.S. military bases in the region earlier today.
The U.S. administration stated that the operation was intended to degrade Iran’s military capabilities and protect American forces and their regional partners. Iranian authorities have not yet released an official assessment of casualties or damage resulting from the strikes.
The latest developments come amid rising tensions across the Middle East, with international observers warning that further escalation could threaten regional security, global energy markets, and maritime navigation.
Federal Reserve Keeps Interest Rates Unchanged
The U.S. Federal Reserve announced at the conclusion of its latest policy meeting that it would leave interest rates unchanged at a target range of 3.50% to 3.75%, a decision that was widely expected by financial markets as policymakers continue to assess inflation and broader economic conditions.
In its statement, the Federal Reserve said the decision reflects ongoing uncertainty surrounding the inflation outlook amid higher energy prices and geopolitical tensions. The central bank emphasized that future policy decisions will remain data-dependent and will be guided by incoming economic indicators.
The meeting revealed a split within the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), with three members voting in favor of a 25-basis-point rate increase, while the majority supported maintaining current borrowing costs, highlighting differing views on persistent inflationary pressures.
Following the announcement, U.S. stock indexes declined while Treasury yields moved higher as investors reassessed expectations for the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy path over the coming months.
Oil Prices Rise as Airstrikes Escalate in the Middle East
Global oil prices climbed on Thursday, July 30, 2026, as concerns over potential disruptions to energy supplies intensified following escalating airstrikes and heightened military tensions across the Middle East.
Brent crude futures gained more than 2% during trading, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also advanced, supported by investor concerns that the expanding conflict could affect oil production and shipping through key maritime routes in the region.
Market analysts said investors are closely monitoring security developments, particularly amid fears that further escalation could disrupt oil exports from the Middle East, one of the world’s largest crude-producing regions.
Expectations of sustained global energy demand, combined with declining oil inventories in some markets, also provided support for prices as traders awaited further developments that could influence the balance between global supply and demand.
Looking Ahead
Global financial markets are awaiting the release of two key U.S. economic indicators: the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report and the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index. Investors are closely watching these data releases for fresh insights into the strength of the U.S. economy and the trajectory of inflation. The results could influence expectations for future Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions, while also affecting movements across equity, bond, currency, and commodity markets.