Gold headed for best year since 2010
Gold could reach 3,000 in 2025, analyst says
Palladium up more than 1

Dec 24 Reuters Gold prices gained in a quiet holidayperiod trading on Tuesday, while investor focus was on the U.S. Federal Reserve39;s rate strategy for next year and Presidentelect Donald Trump39;s future tariff policies.

Spot gold added 0.1 at 2,614.19 per ounce, as of 1228 GMT. U.S. gold futures were steady at 2,629.10.

After aggressively cutting rates in September and November this year, the Fed persisted with cuts in December but hinted at fewer reductions in 2025.

Central bank buying, monetary policy easing and geopolitical tensions have propelled bullion to multiple record highs in 2024, putting it on track for its best year since 2010 with a 27 increase so far.

A benign U.S. inflation reading on Friday eased some concerns about the pace of cuts next year. However, markets are still pricing in just about 35basispoint easing for 2025.

Gold could reach 3,000 in 2025, assuming markets adhere to bullion39;s role as an inflation hedge, especially if Trump39;s policies reignite U.S. inflationary pressures, said Exinity Group Chief Market Analyst Han Tan.

U.S. investors are preparing for a swathe of changes in 2025 from tariffs and deregulation to tax policy that will ripple through markets as Trump returns to the White House in January.

Bullion bulls may enjoy another stellar year ahead if global geopolitical tensions are ramped up under Trump 2.0,…