Gold: “Bullish Pennant” keeps XAUUSD buyers optimistic on US NFP Day
Gold prices are starting to rise, reducing weekly losses on the first positive day in three. This reflects a market shift toward the traditional safe-haven asset as investors remain cautious ahead of the US employment report for September, particularly the Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) data.
Buyers remain in control
Even though gold has lacked momentum over the past two weeks, it is holding above the late September breakout from a four-month trend line resistance, which now acts as support. The XAUUSD also forms a “Bullish Pennant” pattern, attracting buyers. The rising RSI (14) indicates strength, but the sluggish MACD and pre-NFP jitters are holding back immediate movement in the precious metal.
Key technical levels to watch
Gold's immediate focus is on the bullish pennant's resistance line, currently near $2,665, which poses a challenge for intraday buyers. Above that, the recent all-time high of $2,685 and the $2,700 mark will attract bulls. If gold trades successfully above $2,700, it could target around $2,735, which is the theoretical goal of the pennant.
On the downside, support levels are set at $2,638 and $2,635, thanks to the pennant's bottom line and a long-term resistance-turned-support. Further down, an upward-sloping support line from early August and the 200-SMA will provide additional support for XAUUSD near $2,580 and $2,560, respectively.
Gold bulls can overlook pullbacks
Although US employment data may pose challenges for gold buyers, several strong support levels make it tough for sellers to regain control. This suggests that bulls can stay confident, even if prices experience a pullback—unless there’s a significant drop below the 200-SMA.
