Factbox-Morgan Stanley forecasts gold prices to reach $4,500/Oz by mid-2026

Gold prices dipped slightly, with the front-month contract closing down 0.5% at $3,982.20 per troy ounce. Despite this daily decline, the overall performance for October remains positive, indicating a resilient market. This fluctuation is significant as it reflects ongoing trends in the commodities market and investor sentiment.

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In the latest MoneyWeek news quiz, readers are challenged to assess their knowledge of current financial trends, particularly focusing on the fluctuations in gold and silver prices and the earnings of the Magnificent Seven tech companies. This matters because understanding these trends can help investors make informed decisions in a volatile market.

The City of London is facing a significant productivity crisis, with a £20 billion budget gap attributed to the effects of Brexit. Rachel Reeves has been tasked with addressing this financial shortfall, while Rob Rooney, former head of Morgan Stanley in London, highlights that cities like Frankfurt, Madrid, Milan, and Paris are thriving at London's expense. This situation is crucial as it underscores the ongoing economic challenges the UK faces post-Brexit, raising concerns about the long-term viability of London as a financial hub.

Gold prices are on track for a consecutive weekly loss as cautious signals from the Federal Reserve and mixed trade sentiments weigh heavily on the market. This decline is significant for investors who closely monitor gold as a safe-haven asset, especially in times of economic uncertainty. The Fed's stance suggests a careful approach to interest rates, which can impact gold's appeal, while trade optimism fluctuates, adding to the volatility. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone involved in commodities trading.

Bank of America strategist Hartnett suggests that gold and Chinese stocks are the best hedges against the booming artificial intelligence market, which has driven valuations to new heights. This insight is crucial for investors looking to navigate the volatility associated with AI investments, as it highlights alternative assets that could provide stability in uncertain times.

Chevron's CFO, Eimear Bonner, has warned that the current slump in oil prices could continue into 2026 due to strong production levels from OPEC+ and other countries. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing challenges in the oil market, which could impact energy prices and economic stability globally.

Jefferies has projected that the S&P 500 could reach a fair value of 7500 by the end of 2026, indicating a strong bullish outlook for the stock market. This forecast is significant as it reflects confidence in economic recovery and growth, suggesting that investors may see substantial returns in the coming years.

In a promising turn during the AI boom, investors are calling for tangible results from companies, echoing a long-standing demand for accountability. This shift indicates a more rational approach to the rapid growth in artificial intelligence spending, suggesting that investors are becoming more discerning and focused on profitability. It matters because it could lead to more sustainable growth in the tech sector, ensuring that innovations translate into real-world value.

The debate over wealth taxes is heating up globally, especially in France, where opinions are sharply divided. As income inequality continues to rise and government debt becomes a pressing issue, many are questioning whether taxing the ultra-rich is the most effective solution. This discussion is crucial as it could shape future economic policies and impact social equity.

Ukraine has condemned recent attacks on power substations that are crucial for the operation of its nuclear plants. This situation raises significant concerns about the safety and stability of nuclear energy in the region, especially given the ongoing conflict. Ensuring the protection of these facilities is vital not only for Ukraine's energy security but also for the broader safety of neighboring countries.

Coherent Corp's Executive Vice President, Barbarossa, has sold $8.36 million worth of stock, a move that raises questions about the company's future direction and the executive's confidence in its performance. Such transactions can often signal shifts in strategy or personal financial planning, making it a noteworthy event for investors and analysts alike.

Credo Technology's COO, Lam Yat Tung, has sold $13.5 million worth of shares, a move that raises questions about the company's future direction and financial health. Such transactions can often signal confidence or concern among executives, making it a noteworthy event for investors and analysts alike.

Tokyo Electron's Q1 2025 earnings call revealed strong market trends, showcasing the company's resilience and growth potential in the semiconductor industry. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing demand for advanced technology and positions Tokyo Electron as a key player in the market, which could attract investors and boost confidence in the sector.