According to data released by the Central Bank of Russia on Thursday, as of August 1st, the country's gold reserves had decreased by 1.6 million ounces since the beginning of the year, falling to 73.2 million ounces, the lowest level since January 2020. The data shows that over the past seven months, the value of the bank's gold reserves decreased by $33.7 billion.

Spot gold has just surpassed the $4,550.00/ounce mark, now quoted at $4,550.41/ounce, up 0.69% intraday; the main COMEX gold futures contract is now at $4,607.20/ounce, up 0.78% intraday.

European markets regain favor: Economic resilience exceeds expectations, limited AI exposure, and clear monetary policy

Sources say the Iraqi state oil marketing organization (SOMO) has launched a fuel oil tender requiring monthly deliveries, but market demand is expected to be weak.

Spot gold has just broken through the $4,530.00/oz level, now quoted at $4,529.60/oz, up 0.23% on the day; COMEX gold futures main contract is now at $4,586.20/oz, up 0.32% on the day.