Factbox-Morgan Stanley forecasts gold prices to reach $4,500/Oz by mid-2026

Gold prices dipped slightly, with the front-month contract closing down 0.5% at $3,982.20 per troy ounce. Despite this daily decline, the overall performance for October remains positive, indicating a resilient market. This fluctuation is significant as it reflects ongoing trends in the commodities market and investor sentiment.

A stunning 18K gold paperclip chain bracelet, originally priced at $500, is now available for just $250. This limited-stock deal is a fantastic opportunity for jewelry lovers to snag a luxurious piece at half the price. Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your accessory game while saving money!

In the latest MoneyWeek news quiz, readers are challenged to assess their knowledge of current financial trends, particularly focusing on the fluctuations in gold and silver prices and the earnings of the Magnificent Seven tech companies. This matters because understanding these trends can help investors make informed decisions in a volatile market.

The City of London is facing a significant productivity crisis, with a £20 billion budget gap attributed to the effects of Brexit. Rachel Reeves has been tasked with addressing this financial shortfall, while Rob Rooney, former head of Morgan Stanley in London, highlights that cities like Frankfurt, Madrid, Milan, and Paris are thriving at London's expense. This situation is crucial as it underscores the ongoing economic challenges the UK faces post-Brexit, raising concerns about the long-term viability of London as a financial hub.

Gold prices are on track for a consecutive weekly loss as cautious signals from the Federal Reserve and mixed trade sentiments weigh heavily on the market. This decline is significant for investors who closely monitor gold as a safe-haven asset, especially in times of economic uncertainty. The Fed's stance suggests a careful approach to interest rates, which can impact gold's appeal, while trade optimism fluctuates, adding to the volatility. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone involved in commodities trading.

Bank of America strategist Hartnett suggests that gold and Chinese stocks are the best hedges against the booming artificial intelligence market, which has driven valuations to new heights. This insight is crucial for investors looking to navigate the volatility associated with AI investments, as it highlights alternative assets that could provide stability in uncertain times.

Chevron's CFO, Eimear Bonner, has warned that the current slump in oil prices could continue into 2026 due to strong production levels from OPEC+ and other countries. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing challenges in the oil market, which could impact energy prices and economic stability globally.

Jefferies has projected that the S&P 500 could reach a fair value of 7500 by the end of 2026, indicating a strong bullish outlook for the stock market. This forecast is significant as it reflects confidence in economic recovery and growth, suggesting that investors may see substantial returns in the coming years.

Eugene Remm, co-founder and partner, emphasizes the importance of creating authentic experiences in the restaurant industry. In a recent interview on 'The Close' with Katie Greifeld and Romaine Bostick, he discussed the opening of his 21st restaurant, showcasing his commitment to intimacy and quality in dining. This matters because it highlights a growing trend in the culinary world where personal connections and unique experiences are prioritized, setting a new standard for what diners expect.

The US Department of Justice is investigating a Hong-Kong based traditional Chinese medicine company following an astonishing 46,000% surge in its stock value. This probe highlights concerns over market volatility and the potential for manipulation, raising questions about the integrity of trading practices in the herbal medicine sector.

Michael Chow, a prominent restaurateur and artist, predicts a future where humans will no longer cook, suggesting that technology will take over this essential task within the next 50 years. This vision raises concerns about the loss of culinary traditions and the human touch in cooking, which many consider an art form. As we embrace advancements in automation and artificial intelligence, it's crucial to reflect on what we might lose in the process.

Central Bancompany is making headlines as it prepares for a potential IPO that could value the bank at up to $5.7 billion. This move is significant as it marks a rare occurrence in the U.S. banking sector, where IPOs have become increasingly uncommon. The successful launch of this IPO could not only boost Central Bancompany's growth but also signal a renewed interest in bank investments, potentially attracting more players to the financial market.

Ryan Paul D, a director at Fox Corp, has sold $1.14 million worth of stock. This transaction is significant as it reflects the director's financial decisions and could indicate confidence or concerns about the company's future. Such sales can impact investor sentiment and market perception, making it a noteworthy event for stakeholders.

Wall Street experienced gains, largely driven by a boost from Amazon's strong performance. However, investor enthusiasm is tempered by concerns over rising interest rates, which could impact future market growth. This situation highlights the delicate balance investors must navigate between positive corporate earnings and broader economic indicators.