The debt ceiling stand-off in the US had not helped to support the gold price. When the United States faces difficulties in servicing its debt or meeting payment obligations, it can lead to uncertainty and instability in the financial markets. After weeks of negotiations, expectations were met over the weekend, and a preliminary agreement was reached between Republicans and Democrats. The gold price was looking likely to pause and consolidate its gains. Gold had managed to eke out a new record price, but met resistance around the previous highs. The net long speculative futures position was the highest level in a ... (full story)