Finance

Market participants continue to digest the Federal Reserve's mid-September decision to increase its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 3.75% to 4%. While the interest rate hike initially spurred volatility and upward pressure on yields, treasury yields eased slightly at the beginning of the week. Investors are closely monitoring upcoming remarks from several central bank officials for further policy transparency.

Crude oil benchmarks fell for a fourth consecutive session, with West Texas Intermediate dipping below the $100-per-barrel mark and Brent crude posting noticeable losses. The downtrend was fueled by data showing a resilient recovery in Saudi Arabian shipments, which offset broader regional geopolitical risks. This pullback in energy costs has successfully cooled immediate market anxiety surrounding global inflation.

Spot gold prices stabilized near $4,360 per ounce, maintaining a solid foundation despite recent monetary tightening pressures. The asset rebounded from lower monthly bounds as cooling energy costs and persistent safe-haven interest helped limit deeper technical pullbacks. The precious metal is facing significant overhead resistance near the psychological threshold of $4,400.