Gold Steadies After Surge; US Data & Fed Outlook Overshadow Venezuela Turmoil

• Gold prices stabilized around $4,440 per ounce, pausing after a 2.7% surge linked to Venezuelan political uncertainty.
• Markets are now prioritizing upcoming US economic data, including the December jobs report, over the Venezuelan situation.
• Federal Reserve official Neel Kashkari indicated interest rates might be near neutral, with future Fed decisions data-dependent.
• Bullion is currently $100 below its all-time high of $4,549.92, with some banks forecasting further gains this year.
• Concerns exist that commodity index rebalancing starting Thursday could lead to selling by passive funds, potentially pressuring gold prices.

Why It Matters: Gold steadies as US economic data and Fed policy outlook take precedence over geopolitical events.