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Spot Prices and Live Metal Prices

Author: Ian Davis - Chief Operations Officer

Published: 9 Apr 2018

Last Updated: 11 Jan 2023

Synopsis

The live gold price is determined by gold exchanges, taking into account factors such as supply and demand, economic conditions, and political events. The spot gold price is a measure of the price of gold in the spot market, and is an important benchmark for buying and selling gold, and can aid in predicting future gold prices. Understanding both is crucial for anyone who wishes to invest or trade in the gold market.

Introduction

Gold is an highly sought after metal and as such the supply and demand dynamics result in a high price per ounce of gold. Its value can fluctuate depending on a number of economic and political factors. Understanding how the live gold price is calculated and what is meant by the spot gold price is imperative for anyone who wishes to invest or trade in the gold market.

Calculation of the Live Gold Price

The live gold price is calculated by gold exchanges and price feeds can use a single source of a price or create a price taking into account many exchanges and markets. These exchanges are similar to stock exchanges, in that they provide a marketplace for buying and selling gold. The exchanges utilize a variety of financial instruments and trading algorithms to establish the current price of gold, which is then considered the "live" price. These financial instruments can include options, futures, or forwards, and the trading algorithm used is typically based on the trading volume and liquidity of the market.

Factors Affecting the Live Gold Price

A plethora of factors can influence the live gold price, such as supply and demand. When there is a high demand for gold, the price of gold tends to rise. Conversely, when the supply of gold is low, the price of gold may also increase. Furthermore, economic conditions and political events can have an impact on the live gold price. For instance, during a recession, the price of gold may rise as investors seek a safe haven for their capital. Similarly, political instability in a country may also lead to an increase in the price of gold.

Spot Gold Price

The spot gold price is a measure of the price of gold that is traded in the spot market. The spot market is a financial market where assets are traded for immediate delivery and payment. In the case of gold, the spot price is the price at which gold can be bought or sold at the current moment, rather than a future date.

Comparison to other Gold Price Measures

The spot gold price is distinct from other measures of the price of gold, such as the futures price or the price of a gold ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund). The futures price is a predicted price for a commodity that will be delivered at a later date, while the price of a gold ETF takes into account other factors such as management fees and investment costs.

Importance for Investors and Traders

For investors and traders, the spot gold price is a significant measure of the value of gold. It serves as a benchmark for buying and selling gold, and can also be used to predict future gold prices. By understanding the spot gold price, investors and traders can make more informed decisions about when to invest in or divest from gold.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding how the live gold price is calculated and what is meant by the spot gold price is imperative for anyone who wishes to invest or trade in the gold market. The live gold price is determined by gold exchanges, taking into account factors such as supply and demand, economic conditions, and political events. The spot gold price, on the other hand,is a measure of the price of gold in the spot market, and is an important benchmark for buying and selling gold, and can aid in predicting future gold prices. Being well informed on these topics can help make astute investment decisions when it comes to gold as an asset.

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