$Harmony Gold Mining(HMY.US)

On Tuesday, gold fell below $5,030 per ounce as investors took profits after prices climbed to a more than one-week high in the previous session. Market attention has now shifted to key U.S. economic releases, particularly the non-farm payrolls report and inflation data, which could shape the Federal Reserve's interest rate path. On Monday, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett noted that job growth may slow in the coming months due to a shrinking population. The market is currently pricing in at least two interest rate cuts this year, maintaining expectations for accommodative monetary policy, broadly supporting bullion. Demand from the official sector also remains strong, with the Chinese central bank extending its gold buying spree for the 15th consecutive month in January. Additionally, geopolitical risks continue to underpin safe-haven demand. Despite recent signs of progress in negotiations, tensions between the U.S. and Iran persist, with Washington warning U.S.-flagged vessels to stay away from Iranian waters.