Etikett: Joe Foster

Gold Reacts to Dwindling Reflation Trade

VanEck Joe Foster Gold Reacts to Dwindling Reflation TradeGold Reacts to Dwindling Reflation Trade

Market Review – Gold Reacts to Dwindling Reflation Trade

Weak U.S. Dollar, Economic and Political Stability Support Gold Price Recovery

The gold price changed very little in May, recovering towards the end of the month after early weakness brought on by the French presidential election and the FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) meeting. From the first round of the French elections on April 23 to the final round on May 7, markets became increasingly convinced that the pro-EU candidate Emmanuel Macron would win the election. This pressured gold as the risk of a Marine Le Pen-led Eurozone break-up lessened. On May 3, comments by the Federal Reserve (Fed) following its May FOMC meeting convinced the market that a rate increase following the June 13 meeting would be likely. Gold hit its low for the month on May 9 at $1,214 per ounce, but was able to regain lost ground to end the month up $0.65 (0.05%) at $1,268.94 per ounce. Weakness in the U.S. dollar also added support for gold during the month. The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY)1 fell 2.1% in May and appears to have entered a bearish downtrend since reaching multi-year highs in early January. Economies in Europe and Japan have stabilized recently and the Trump administration has indicated a desire for a weaker U.S. dollar. Gold should benefit if the U.S. dollar trend seen so far in 2017 continues.

Asian Physical Gold Demand Appears Strong in 2017

Physical gold demand from India and China has also been supportive of gold prices. We believe healthy demand in March and April along with anecdotal comments from analysts suggest that 2017 is shaping up to be a much better year for gold in Asia. Last year’s liquidity squeeze caused by the currency transformation in India seems to have dissipated and people are again making gold purchases. In China, bond market turbulence associated with government efforts to rein in debt and speculation have spurred investment demand for gold.

Juniors and Mid-Tiers Underperform But Not Based on Fundamentals

Chart patterns for the gold equity indices mimicked gold bullion in May. The NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index2 (GDMNTR) gained 1.07%, while the MVIS™ Global Junior Gold Miners Index3 (MVGDXJTR) fell 3.66%. The juniors and some mid-tier gold miners have underperformed the larger producers over the past two months with no significant change in gold bullion prices. We find no fundamental reason for the underperformance, and therefore expect some mean reversion to favor the juniors in the second half of the year.

Is U.S. Equity Market Bubble Set to Burst?

Following the November presidential election the “reflation” or “Trump” trade took the markets by storm. Presumably, the belief was that pro-growth policies would ignite animal spirits in the markets that would stimulate business and prosperity. As President Trump has struggled to implement policies and his administration has been dogged by controversy, the Trump trade has unwound. Metals such as copper and iron-ore have given up much, if not all, of their post-election price gains. Gold has rebounded from its post-election losses. Interest rates have subsided and the DXY has fallen to pre-election levels. The one asset class that appears to still believe in the reflation trade is U.S. equities. As we write, the S&P 500 Index4 has reached new, all-time highs. In the past year, the likes of Apple and Tesla have posted gains of more than 50%. A chart of NYSE margin debt is worth a thousand words.

Notice the peaks at the tops of the tech (2000) and housing bubbles (2007) compared with current levels. Each of these bubbles was accompanied by strong 3% to 4% economic growth and each was preceded by a Fed tightening cycle. While the current stock market does not have the same feeling of mania seen before the tech bust, in the context of an economy that struggles to achieve 2% growth, we struggle to justify current stock market valuations – and the Fed is tightening. At the other end of the spectrum are gold stocks, fresh off of the worst bear market in their history from 2011 to 2015. A chart in our April update showed gold stock valuations below long term averages. Secular market tops and bottoms are notoriously difficult to predict, however, we believe the signs are there to make such a prediction for S&P stocks and gold stocks respectively.

Industry’s Current Growth Strategy Reflected in Portfolio’s Corporate Activity Level

Our gold fund performance received a boost in May when each of our top three junior positions became the targets of corporate activity.

Gold Road Resources (2.3% of net assets*) discovered the multi-million ounce Gruyere deposit in Western Australia in 2013. Currently under development, Gruyere is set to begin producing gold in 2018. On May 19 South Africa-based major Gold Fields (0% of net assets*) announced the purchase of a 10% stake in Gold Road at a 27% premium to the closing share price.

In 2007 Continental Gold (3.0% of net assets*) purchased Buritica, a small scale gold operation in Colombia with production that dates back to 17th century colonial times. Through exploration and drilling, Continental has identified a multi-million ounce, high-grade deposit that is scheduled to become Colombia’s first large-scale underground mining operation in 2020. On May 11 Denver-based major Newmont Mining (4.4% of net assets*) announced the purchase of a 19.9% position in Continental at a 46% premium to the closing share price.

In 2014 Integra Gold (3.0% of net assets*) bought the historic Sigma and Lamaque Mines in Quebec, Canada. From 1935 to 1985 the property produced 4.5 million ounces of gold. In 2015 Integra discovered mineralization in the Triangle deposit that the old timers missed. Triangle now has a resource of 1.8 million ounces and the company was making plans to construct a mine and expand the resource further. On May 14, Vancouver-based mid-tier Eldorado Gold (0.9% of net assets*) announced the friendly takeover of Integra at a 51% premium to the closing share price.

We were early investors in each of these gold development companies and have visited each of their properties. We increased our positions as they added value to their projects. Our conviction grows when a large gold company, with their teams of geologists and engineers, decides one of our portfolio companies is of strategic importance. We can’t remember ever seeing three of our companies receiving such attention in a single month. This is a reflection of the current growth strategy in the sector. In past cycles, large companies have been guilty of overpaying for acquisitions and destroying value. They would wait until a junior advanced a project to the point of construction. Instead, producers are now taking strategic equity stakes at an earlier stage in companies with properties they believe will develop into mines. That way, if they pull the acquisition trigger, they don’t have to pay a premium on the portion they own. Eldorado used this strategy by taking a 15% stake in Integra in 2015 at C$0.28, versus the C$1.21 they are now paying for the portion of Integra they do not own.

Acquisition activity has been subdued in the sector, while strategic positioning has become a frequent occurrence. In some cases, two producers have taken a strategic stake in the same junior developer. Not all gold properties become profitable mines and not all producers will have the same success that Eldorado has had with Integra. Gold production is no longer growing globally and many companies will face declining production in the years to come. To offset this, once the current phase of strategic positioning has run its course, we believe there will be another robust M&A cycle, possibly beginning in 2018.

1 U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) indicates the general international value of the U.S. dollar. The DXY does this by averaging the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and six major world currencies: Euro, Japanese yen, Pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Swedish kroner, and Swiss franc.
2 NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold.
3 MVIS™ Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver.
4 S&P 500® Index (S&P 500) consists of 500 widely held common stocks, covering four broad sectors (industrials, utilities, financial and transportation).

by Joe Foster, Portfolio Manager and Strategist

With more than 30 years of gold industry experience, Foster began his gold career as a boots on the ground geologist, evaluating mining exploration and development projects. Foster is Portfolio Manager and Strategist for the Gold and Precious Metals strategy.

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author and these opinions may change at any time and from time to time.

Important Information

This commentary originates from VanEck Associates Corporation (“VanEck”) and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any security.

VanEck’s opinions stated in this commentary may deviate from opinions presented by other VanEck departments or companies. Information and opinions in this commentary are based on VanEck’s analysis. Any forecasts and projections contained in the commentary appear from the named sources. All opinions in this commentary are, regardless of source, given in good faith, and may only be valid as of the stated date of this commentary and are subject to change without notice in subsequent versions of the commentary. Any projections, market outlooks or estimates in this material are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions that are solely the opinion of VanEck. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

No investment advice

The commentary is intended only to provide general and preliminary information to investors and shall not be construed as the basis for any investment decision. This commentary has been prepared by VanEck as general information for use of investors to whom the commentary has been distributed, but it is not intended as a personal recommendation of particular financial instruments or strategies and thus it does not provide individually tailored investment advice, and does not take into account the individual investor’s financial situation, existing holdings or liabilities, investment knowledge and experience, investment objective and horizon or risk profile and preferences. The investor must particularly ensure the suitability of an investment as regards his/her financial and tax situation and investment objectives. The investor bears the risk of losses in connection with an investment.

Before acting on any information in this publication or report, it is recommendable to consult one’s financial advisor.

Forecasts, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary research and the information contained in this material is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or used as investment, tax or legal advice, any recommendation, or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, an interest in any security. References to specific securities and their issuers or sectors are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities or gain exposure to such sectors.

Each investor shall make his/her own appraisal of the tax and other financial merits of his/her investment.

 

Weaker U.S. Dollar, Investment Demand Sustains Gold’s Momentum in April

Weaker US Dollar, Investment Demand Sustains Gold’s Momentum in April

Weaker US Dollar, Investment Demand Sustains Gold’s Momentum in April by Joe Foster, Gold Strategist

Gold’s positive momentum continued in April. Bullion traded as high as $1,289.60 per ounce on April 18, driven primarily by weaker than expected U.S. economic data. Most notably, figures released in the jobs report were below expectations and additionally, U.S. factory output surprised on the downside. Gold also gained support from comments by President Trump during an interview on April 12, in which he stated that the U.S. dollar was getting too strong and that he would prefer that the Federal Reserve keep interest rates low. The U.S. dollar (DXY Index 1) weakened 1.30% during the month. By April 18, markets were not pricing in another Fed rate hike in June, with the implied probability at only 43.7%. However, markets perceived the outcome of the first round of the French presidential elections positively, fueling risk-on sentiment, and pushing down the price of gold in the last week of April. As of May 1, markets were attaching approximately a 70% probability to a June Fed rate hike and a 72% probability to a July hike. Gold ended April at $1,264 per ounce, up $18.94 per ounce or 1.52%.

Demand for gold bullion backed exchange traded products (ETPs) picked up again in April with holdings up approximately 1.4% for the month and 4.6% year to date. We track flows into the gold bullion ETPs as we think investments in those products typically represent longer-term, strategic investment demand for gold and as such, provide an excellent proxy for the direction of the gold market.

Gold Stocks Display Rare Behavior Relative to Bullion

Gold stocks underperformed the metal, which is atypical for a period in which the  price of gold increased. The NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index 2 (GDMNTR) fell 1.9% and the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index 3 (MVGDXJTR) dropped 10.8% during the month.

With regards to small cap companies, we believe the underperformance of the group is related to trading activity following an index announcement on April 12, 2017 indicating an upcoming rule change for the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index. This upcoming rule change expands the universe of companies eligible for inclusion in the Index effective June 17, 2017. It appears to us that the market’s reaction was to sell, ahead of the Index rebalance date, those companies that are expected to be reduced to make room for the new companies that will be added to the Index, resulting in significant selling pressure. We expect some volatility in the share price of the junior companies making up the Index to continue until the June Index effective date. However, we view this share price action as temporary, and expect a return to more normal trading activity, with the fundamental aspects of the stocks driving their price in the longer term.

In the case of larger market cap equities, the underperformance was driven by a 12% drop in the share price of Barrick Gold (1.9% of net assets). On April 24, Barrick reported 1Q 2017 results that missed expectations, due primarily to operational issues that the company expects to resolve shortly. However, this was received very negatively by markets, which have become accustomed to Barrick consistently meeting or exceeding expectations during the past couple of years. Although there were a few other negative surprises, overall, the seniors and mid-tier companies reported 1Q results that met or exceeded expectations.

Gold equities should outperform gold bullion during rising gold prices and underperform if gold prices fall. Although this expected relative performance may not hold during certain periods (as was the case in April), gold equities have consistently demonstrated their effectiveness as leverage plays on gold during the past several years (see the chart below).

(click to enlarge)

Gold Market in April Provides Insight for 2017 and Beyond

It’s conceivable that the gold market for the year 2017 may end up looking like it did in April; i.e., characterized by short rallies followed by pullbacks, as the market’s assessment of the health and prospects of the U.S. economy and the Fed’s rate outlook lifts or depresses the gold price. We see the gold price well supported within a range centered on the $1,250 level in 2017, as it establishes a new base that started forming in 2016. There is potentially significant risk and uncertainty that could drive the gold price higher, and it certainly seems possible that the geopolitical or financial outlook could turn negative rather quickly. Beyond 2017, adverse events, we believe, become increasingly likely as the post-crisis expansion ages and if the bull market in stocks and bonds loses steam. These are the types of “risk-off” events that we believe will likely compel investors to seek protection by investing in gold and gold equities.

Gold Stocks Typically Provide Leverage to Gold and Current Valuations Remain Attractive

Gold mining equities offer leveraged exposure to gold. The leverage comes from earnings leverage; as the gold price increases, the change in the company’s profitability significantly outpaces the change in the gold price. In addition, at higher gold prices, in-the-ground resources have a higher value, and the company’s exploration efforts, project expansions, operational improvements, and potential acquisitions also become more valuable. This explains why gold stocks trade at premium valuation multiples. Looking at historical valuation levels, as illustrated by the price-to-cash flow chart below, we see that stocks are currently trading at multiples that are below the long-term average, and well below the multiples reached during the peak of the last bull market.

(click to enlarge)

Agnico-Eagle Mines: What Makes a Premium Rated Gold Stock

We look at relative valuations among our coverage universe to identify undervalued and overvalued stocks. Stocks that trade at above average multiples may be too expensive, or they may be deserving of a higher multiple derived from their higher growth potential (as measured, for example, in free cash flow per share and not just in ounces) and lower risk profile. A look into one of our top holdings, Agnico-Eagle Mines (5.5% of net assets), is helpful in understanding what it takes to be a premium rated stock in the gold market.

Listed below are some of the primary reasons we believe the Agnico-Eagle Mines stock deserves a premium rating:

  • A track record of consistently meeting or beating expectations in recent years. Agnico’s 1Q 2017 results released at the end of April once again exceeded estimates for earnings, production, and costs. In addition, the company increased its production guidance for 2017.
  • A strong, experienced management team. Sean Boyd has been Agnico’s CEO since 1998 and has been with the company since 1985. He was one of the few CEOs to survive the sector-wide management changeover that occurred a few years ago. Many members of Agnico’s management team have been with the company for more than a decade. This continuity, we believe, is tightly linked to the company’s success. Agnico has by no means escaped the perils of the gold mining industry. In 2011, its Goldex mine (now back in production) had to be shut down due to rock failure that led to ground subsidence and stability issues, and the write off of the company’s investment in Goldex. Travails in Finland, during the start-up of its Kittila mine in 2009, are also part of the company’s recent history. In our view, this diversity of experiences, combined with key management continuity, has shaped Agnico into the industry leader it is today.
  • Unmatched growth potential among the senior gold producers. We estimate Agnico’s five-year production growth at more than 25%, leading to a corresponding growth in operating cash flow. In contrast, most other seniors are struggling to sustain production.
  • The right number of operations in the right places. Agnico operates five mines in Canada, one in Finland, and two in Mexico. This is right about the maximum number of operations and regions we like to see gold companies managing, and they are all in mining friendly jurisdictions.
  • Potential for further discoveries. Agnico has had a successful strategy of finding or acquiring new projects by combining a consistent focus on exploration with investment in early-stage opportunities/companies. Agnico is currently developing the high-grade Meliadine project in Nunavut, Canada, with reserves of 3.4 million ounces, and the Amaruq deposit, a satellite deposit to the existing Meadowbank operation.

We have written extensively about the positive, post bull market transformation of the gold sector into a healthy, cash flow generating business, offering attractive returns. A re-rating of the entire sector to reflect this transformation is justifiable in our view. Companies need to continue to demonstrate that they are deserving of the premium valuation multiples they have historically enjoyed. The formula, although complex, is not too complicated: Increase the potential and ability to develop gold deposits into profitable and sustainable mines while reducing the risks associated with those developments, and the company should enjoy a re-rating by the market.

1 U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) indicates the general international value of the U.S. dollar. The DXY does this by averaging the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and six major world currencies: Euro, Japanese yen, Pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Swedish kroner, and Swiss franc.

2 NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold.

3 MVIS™ Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver.

by Joe Foster, Portfolio Manager and Strategist

With more than 30 years of gold industry experience, Foster began his gold career as a boots on the ground geologist, evaluating mining exploration and development projects. Foster is Portfolio Manager and Strategist for the Gold and Precious Metals strategy..

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author and these opinions may change at any time and from time to time.

Important Disclosures

This commentary originates from VanEck Associates Corporation (“VanEck”) and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any security.

VanEck’s opinions stated in this commentary may deviate from opinions presented by other VanEck departments or companies. Information and opinions in this commentary are based on VanEck’s analysis. Any forecasts and projections contained in the commentary appear from the named sources. All opinions in this commentary are, regardless of source, given in good faith, and may only be valid as of the stated date of this commentary and are subject to change without notice in subsequent versions of the commentary. Any projections, market outlooks or estimates in this material are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions that are solely the opinion of VanEck. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

No investment advice

The commentary is intended only to provide general and preliminary information to investors and shall not be construed as the basis for any investment decision. This commentary has been prepared by VanEck as general information for use of investors to whom the commentary has been distributed, but it is not intended as a personal recommendation of particular financial instruments or strategies and thus it does not provide individually tailored investment advice, and does not take into account the individual investor’s financial situation, existing holdings or liabilities, investment knowledge and experience, investment objective and horizon or risk profile and preferences. The investor must particularly ensure the suitability of an investment as regards his/her financial and tax situation and investment objectives. The investor bears the risk of losses in connection with an investment.

Before acting on any information in this publication or report, it is recommendable to consult one’s financial advisor.

Forecasts, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary research and the information contained in this material is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or used as investment, tax or legal advice, any recommendation, or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, an interest in any security. References to specific securities and their issuers or sectors are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities or gain exposure to such sectors.

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All indices named in the commentary are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in the Fund. An index’s performance is not illustrative of the Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.

Gold Follows Rate Hike Pattern

Gold Follows Rate Hike Pattern

Gold and Precious Metals Weakness to Rally: Gold Follows Rate Hike Pattern

Rate Increase and Political Uncertainty in U.S. are Primary Drivers in March

Expectations around the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) March 15 rate announcement were the principal drivers of the gold market in March. U.S. economic statistics have been somewhat positive recently, leading the market to expect the Fed to become more hawkish and to perhaps even guide for four rate increases in 2017 (one more than the Fed had announced in December). As a result, gold was weak ahead of the Fed’s rate decision, falling roughly $50 over two weeks to the $1,200 per ounce level. On March 15 when the Fed implemented its first 2017 rate hike as expected, it maintained its projection of only two more rate increases this year. Economic guidance also remained unchanged and Chair Janet Yellen said the Fed is willing to tolerate temporary inflation in order to overshoot its two percent target. The $1,200 per ounce gold price level held on the dovish Fed announcements and gold rallied to end the month with a small gain closing March at $1,249.35 per ounce.

Political activity in the U.S. was also supportive of gold. As we had expected, the market euphoria surrounding the November U.S. presidential election continues to dissipate. The Trump administration has suffered two strikes: the courts are blocking the implementation of new travel restrictions, and the House has blocked healthcare reform. In our opinion, these early defeats make it increasingly unlikely that the administration will be able to deliver on the expected pro-growth reforms that drove the market to new highs following the election. We believe one more strike could create a confidence crisis, which makes meaningful tax reform the next issue that will be vital for Trump’s presidency to gain some positive momentum.

The price trend for gold stocks mimicked gold bullion in March, for the most part. Both the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index1(GDMNTR) and the MVIS™ Junior Gold Miners Index2 (MVGDXJTR) fell ahead of the March 15 Fed announcement and gained afterwards, but, unlike the metal, both gold stock indices ended the month with small losses overall.

Gold’s Before and After Rate Hike Pattern

The March 0.25% Fed rate increase was the third in this tightening cycle that began in December 2015. In all three instances, increasing pessimism in the gold market caused gold to fall to long-term or technical lows. This pessimism was caused by anticipation of rising real rates, a strong U.S. dollar, and faith in the Fed’s outlook for a strengthening economy. However, the economy has not been as robust as hoped and recently, rising inflation has caused real rates to fall. The Fed rate increase in December 2015 was a major turning point, marking the end of the historic 2011 – 2015 bear market for gold. A shift in sentiment also lead to gold rallies following the December 2016 and March 2017 rate hikes. Markets were irrationally causing the U.S. dollar to become overbought and gold to be oversold before each rate increase. Three times makes a pattern and if we have learned anything in our history of investing, it’s that trading patterns end once they are recognized. We will look for market sentiment, Fed behavior, or some other driver to help change the pattern when the Fed hikes rates again. The market expects the next possible rate hike at the June Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting.

The Current (More Rational) Market Bubble Could Pop on Growing Debt

The current economic expansion and bull market in stocks are among the longest on record. Such cycles do not last forever and we have commented in the past on the risks an economic downturn would bring to the financial system. While valuations for stocks and real estate are lofty, the level of mania that we had felt ahead of the tech bust (2001) or housing bubble (2008) has not materialized. Although the popularity of exchange traded funds (ETFs) and other passive investment vehicles could be seen as a form of mania, it is difficult to see anything happening in those vehicles that foreshadows a market crash. Perhaps, if there is to be a downturn, this time it will likely be more orderly than others in the recent past.

While economic downturns are not necessarily drivers for gold, since the subprime crisis of 2008-2009 the financial system has been in such a precarious state that even a mild recession could be financially devastating, thus ultimately benefitting gold and gold stocks. The difference in this cycle is, firstly, that sovereign debt globally is higher than it has ever been during peacetime and it continues to grow. The Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) annual report shows the debt/GDP ratio3 has doubled since 2008 to 77% today and is forecasted to reach 150% in 2047. The CBO also forecasts debt service rising from 7% today to 21% in 2047. The budget deficit was not mentioned in President Trump’s February 28 speech to Congress. We believe no politician wants to seriously tackle the debt bubble for fear of getting voted out of office for raising taxes or cutting entitlements.

Recently we have seen that it appears politically impossible to implement the necessary reforms required to avoid insolvency or a systemic failure of the public healthcare insurance system. Social Security is yet another entitlement that appears to be heading toward insolvency. Gridlock reigns, which makes a debt crisis or another calamity a prerequisite to motivate those in Washington to act constructively. Such a crisis becomes much more likely in a recessionary economy.

The Fed’s three rate increases in this cycle amount to 75 basis points (0.25% on December 16, 2015; 0.25% on December 14, 2016; and 0.25% on March 15, 2017). U.S. rates remain far below historic norms and rates in other advanced economies are even lower. Quantitative easing did not work as well as planned. The Fed is holding trillions of dollars in U.S. Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities on its balance sheet and may have to resort to more radical policies to stimulate the economy in the next recession, which brings added financial risks.

Indications of a Late-Cycle Economy Are Increasing

Here are a number of signs of a late-cycle economy and market. Many of these were highlighted in recent Gluskin Sheff4 newsletters:

•    At eight years, the S&P 500® Index5 is in its second longest bull market since 1928.
•    With a 16.9% annualized gain, this is the third strongest S&P bull market since 1928.
•    Despite stock market gains, GDP growth has expanded just 1.8% annually, versus 3.4% during the longest bull market, occurring from 1987 to 2000.
•    10 of the last 13 Fed hiking cycles ended with a recession.
•    Price to Earnings multiples are in the top quintiles historically and the most expensive since the dot-com bubble (1995-2001).
•    Margin debt is at all-time highs.
•    Auto sales and loan delinquencies suggest automotive activity has peaked.
•    A record 279 corporate insiders have sold stock so far this year.
•    Initial jobless claims are at their cycle lows, typical historically in the waning months/years of expansions.
•    Each of the seventeen Republican presidents since Ulysses S. Grant has experienced a recession within roughly two years of taking office.

Sentiment and Consumption: A Recession Precursor?

A recent Morgan Stanley report interestingly examines historical consumer confidence, as measured by the Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index,6 and personal consumption expenditures7 (PCE). The sentiment of consumers and businesses (soft data) has been trending higher, while data that tracks actual economic results (hard data) has stagnated. This chart is particularly compelling. Notice the divergence between the soft and hard data preceding the last three recessions. A similar divergence is happening now, as consumer confidence appears to have reached its highest level since the tech bust.

Divergence Between Sentiment and Consumption Precedes Recessions

(click to enlarge) Source: Bloomberg; Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis; U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Data as of February 28. 2017.

While we hope that President Trump is able to bring tax, regulatory, and other reforms that energize the U.S. economy, political headwinds and late cycle evidence suggest it is prudent for investors to begin to hedge against the financial pain that the next recession might bring.

 

by Joe Foster, Portfolio Manager and Strategist

With more than 30 years of gold industry experience, Foster began his gold career as a boots on the ground geologist, evaluating mining exploration and development projects. Foster is Portfolio Manager and Strategist for the Gold and Precious Metals strategy..

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author and these opinions may change at any time and from time to time.

1NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold.

2MVIS™ Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver.

3In economics, the debt-to-GDP ratio is the ratio between a country’s government debt (a cumulative amount) and its gross domestic product (GDP) (measured in years). A low debt-to-GDP ratio indicates an economy that produces and sells goods and services sufficient to pay back debts without incurring further debt.

4Gluskin Sheff + Associates Inc., a Canadian independent wealth management firm, manages investment portfolios for high net worth investors, including entrepreneurs, professionals, family trusts, private charitable foundations, and estates.

5The S&P 500® Index (SPX) consists of 500 widely held common stocks, covering four broad sectors (industrials, utilities, financial, and transportation).

6The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® is an indicator designed to measure consumer confidence, which is defined as the degree of optimism on the state of the economy that consumers are expressing through their activities of savings and spending.

7Personal consumption expenditures (PCE) is the primary measure of consumer spending on goods and services in the U.S. economy. It accounts for about two-thirds of domestic final spending, and thus it is the primary engine that drives future economic growth.

Important Disclosures

This commentary originates from VanEck Associates Corporation (“VanEck”) and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any security.

VanEck’s opinions stated in this commentary may deviate from opinions presented by other VanEck departments or companies. Information and opinions in this commentary are based on VanEck’s analysis. Any forecasts and projections contained in the commentary appear from the named sources. All opinions in this commentary are, regardless of source, given in good faith, and may only be valid as of the stated date of this commentary and are subject to change without notice in subsequent versions of the commentary. Any projections, market outlooks or estimates in this material are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions that are solely the opinion of VanEck. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

No investment advice

The commentary is intended only to provide general and preliminary information to investors and shall not be construed as the basis for any investment decision. This commentary has been prepared by VanEck as general information for use of investors to whom the commentary has been distributed, but it is not intended as a personal recommendation of particular financial instruments or strategies and thus it does not provide individually tailored investment advice, and does not take into account the individual investor’s financial situation, existing holdings or liabilities, investment knowledge and experience, investment objective and horizon or risk profile and preferences. The investor must particularly ensure the suitability of an investment as regards his/her financial and tax situation and investment objectives. The investor bears the risk of losses in connection with an investment.

Before acting on any information in this publication or report, it is recommendable to consult one’s financial advisor.

Forecasts, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary research and the information contained in this material is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or used as investment, tax or legal advice, any recommendation, or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, an interest in any security. References to specific securities and their issuers or sectors are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities or gain exposure to such sectors.

Each investor shall make his/her own appraisal of the tax and other financial merits of his/her investment.

Sources

This commentary may be based on or contain information, such as opinions, recommendations, estimates, price targets and valuations which emanate from: VanEck portfolio managers, analysts or representatives, publicly available information, information from other units or Companies of VanEck, or other named sources.

To the extent this commentary is based on or contain information emerging from other sources (“Other Sources”) than VanEck (“External Information”), VanEck has deemed the Other Sources to be reliable but neither the VanEck companies, others associated or affiliated with said companies nor any other person, do guarantee the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the External Information.

Limitation of liability

VanEck and its associated and affiliated companies assume no liability as regards to any investment, divestment or retention decision taken by the investor on the basis of this commentary. In no event will VanEck or other associated and affiliated companies be liable for direct, indirect or incidental, special or consequential damages resulting from the information in this publication or report.

Risk information

The risk of investing in certain financial instruments, is generally high, as their market value is exposed to a lot of different factors such as the operational and financial conditions of the relevant company, growth prospects, change in interest rates, the economic and political environment, foreign exchange rates, shifts in market sentiments etc. Where an investment or security is denominated in a different currency to the investor’s currency of reference, changes in rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value, price or income of or from that investment to the investor. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Estimates of future performance are based on assumptions that may not be realized. When investing in individual shares, the investor may lose all or part of the investments.

Conflicts of interest

VanEck, its affiliates or staff of VanEck companies, may perform services for, solicit business from, hold long or short positions in, or otherwise be interested in the investments (including derivatives) of any company mentioned in this commentary.

To limit possible conflicts of interest and counter the abuse of inside knowledge, the representatives, portfolio managers and analysts of VanEck are subject to internal rules on sound ethical conduct, the management of inside information, handling of unpublished research material, contact with other units of VanEck and personal account dealing. The internal rules have been prepared in accordance with applicable legislation and relevant industry standards. The object of the internal rules is for example to ensure that no analyst will abuse or cause others to abuse confidential information. This commentary has been prepared following the VanEck Conflict of Interest Policy.

Distribution restriction

This commentary is not intended for, and must not be distributed to private customers.

No part of this material may be reproduced in full or in part in any form, or referred to in any other publication without express written permission of VanEck. ©2017, VanEck.

Index Descriptions

All indices named in the commentary are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in the Fund. An index’s performance is not illustrative of the Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.

 

Gold’s Resilience Strengthens in February

Gold’s Resilience Strengthens in February

Gold’s Resilience Strengthens in February. Gold moved through the $1,200 level and showed resilience in February as a number of normally bearish factors failed to weaken prices. Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen’s mid-February testimony to Congress indicated tighter monetary policies, and subsequent comments from regional Fed presidents reinforced Yellen’s hawkish views. This lifted the market odds for a March Fed rate increase and in response the U.S. dollar strengthened considerably, with the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY)1 up 1.9% for the month. The weakness in Chinese and Indian demand for physical gold seen in 2016 continued into the new year, and January Swiss trade statistics showed that exports to both China and India are below last year’s levels. In addition, markets in China were closed at the start of the month for the week-long lunar New Year holiday. At the same time, U.S. equities had a strong month with the Dow Jones Industrials Average (DJIA)2 setting a record of twelve straight days of new all-time highs above 20,000 beginning on February 9. While none of these events would typically be supportive of gold, bullion nonetheless gained $37.68 (3.1%) for the month. In fact, through the end of February, gold is up 8.3% and has outperformed the DJIA by 2.5% in the first two months of 2017.

We attribute the recent resilience of gold to three factors: 1) a new era of geopolitical uncertainty since Brexit; 2) February saw the first significant net inflows to bullion exchange traded products since the November U.S. presidential election; and 3) upticks in inflation have caused a decline in real rates. The February releases of both the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI)3 and the Producer Price Index (PPI)4 surprised analysts with their largest monthly jumps in several years. Annual core CPI inflation is now at 2.3%, putting it at the upper bounds of where it has been trending since the 2008-2009 financial crisis.

Lackluster Yearend Reporting Highlighted by Downgrades and Increased Spending

In contrast to bullion, gold stocks lagged in February, as the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR)5 fell 3.9% and the MVIS™ Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR)6 declined 2.2%; however, January’s results have helped to keep the YTD returns strong at 9.2% and 15.3%, respectively. Most gold producers have reported yearend results and given guidance for 2017, but the reporting has been lackluster. Although most producers have met expectations, there have been a few negative surprises that have weighed on their stocks. Additionally, a couple of miners downgraded the quality of their reserves or lowered production forecasts, and a couple of others raised equity. Given higher gold prices, spending is on the upswing. BofA Merrill Lynch expects that North American senior and mid-tier companies will increase total exploration spending by 51% and new project capital by 32% in 2017. While this will reduce cash flow this year, it should pay off with discoveries and developments further down the road.

Gold Stocks Price Movement Not Fundamentally Driven

While these announcements cast a negative tone over the fourth quarter earnings season, they do not explain the significant underperformance of gold stocks relative to bullion. The weakness in gold stocks was exaggerated by the unusual trading on the afternoon of February 27. Gold trended lower beginning around noon that day as Robert Kaplan, President of the Dallas Federal Reserve, made comments supportive of a rate increase, which stimulated U.S. dollar strength. Gold ended the day with a $4.38 (0.3%) loss, reflecting a normal fundamental reaction to the news. In the same afternoon gold stocks reacted as if gold had taken a $30 beating. Trading volumes hit a historic daily high. The unusual trading and lack of fundamental drivers suggest that technically driven funds received sell signals that induced further stop loss selling. What prompted such sell signals is a mystery, but it has resulted in making stock valuations that were already attractive, dirt cheap. Miners will try to turn that dirt into gold.

Gold Looking for a Price Catalyst in 2017 (and It’s Not Likely to be Inflation)

Thus far in 2017, gold has lacked a catalyst that would move the price strongly higher. We believe such a catalyst is likely, but the source and timing are impossible to predict. In the coming months or years, it is our opinion, that a geopolitical, economic, or financial event that motivates investors to seek safe haven7 investments is likely. Given the easy monetary policies globally, recent expectations for growth, and the potential for trade protectionism, we understand those who see inflation as the next gold catalyst. Gold has always reacted strongly to inflation that is out of control. However, while we could be wrong on this, we do not believe that inflation will trend much higher. Much of the increase in inflation over the past twelve months can be attributed to the resurgence in commodities prices from very oversold levels. In our view, the commodities rebound is not likely to further drive inflation in the near term. The popular reflation theme relies on growth and government spending that may not be as strong as expected, as President Trump may face challenges passing his agenda through Congress. Lastly, the Fed seems poised to tighten policies for an extended period, which works against inflation. Until inflation or some other catalyst emerges, we believe that the gold price will follow the usual ups and downs this year but in general terms, will be well supported in 2017.

Substantial Cost Reduction Across Industry Stabilizing

We have just returned from the BMO Capital Markets 26th Annual Global Metals & Mining Conference held in Hollywood, FL, an annual gathering of metals and mining executives, including many gold producers and developers. It is becoming increasingly clear from the yearend reporting results across these mining companies that the substantial decline in mining costs of the past few years is beginning to reach its limits. While we see no mining cost inflation on the horizon, some companies are seeing costs level out. On average, all-in sustaining costs (AISC) for gold companies are now around the $900 per ounce level. Some companies, particularly among the majors, continue to guide for lower costs, which should enable the average to decline further in the next couple of years.

New Crop of Gold Companies Key to Future Growth

In basic terms, one of the most direct ways to create value for shareholders in the gold sector is to discover a piece of real estate in some remote part of the world that can be turned into a gold mine. There is a new crop of emerging producers that attracted significant attention at the BMO Conference. These are development companies that were able to advance projects through a very difficult bear market and are now favorably positioned producers in an improving market. What is remarkable is that each of these companies started production on time and on budget. There have been no indications of significant problems with these startups because they have been staffed with excellent talent and have been able to access high quality engineering and construction teams. Going forward, these companies are now focused on optimization, expansion, and exploration to help grow their businesses.

There are two routes a development company can take: 1) be acquired by a producer, or 2) build a mine. For shareholders, either outcome is attractive provided the mine is successful. Historically most large producers have grown through acquisitions, however acquisitions can be costly because they usually come at a premium. Thus far in this cycle, producers are using a different approach by taking equity stakes in early stage, pre-resource companies that they believe will develop winning properties. Meantime, emerging producers could become the mid-tiers and majors of tomorrow. As we expect production among the majors to stagnate or decline in coming years, these new emerging companies are helping to revitalize the sector. If the major’s current growth strategy does not pay off, these young companies could become the acquisition targets of the future.

by Joe Foster, Portfolio Manager and Strategist

With more than 30 years of gold industry experience, Foster began his gold career as a boots on the ground geologist, evaluating mining exploration and development projects. Foster is Portfolio Manager and Strategist for the Gold and Precious Metals strategy..

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author and these opinions may change at any time and from time to time.

1NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold. 2MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver. 3Safe haven is an investment that is expected to retain its value or even increase its value in times of market turbulence. 4Tail risk is a form of portfolio risk that arises when the possibility that an investment will move more than three standard deviations from the mean is greater than what is shown by a normal distribution.

Important Disclosures

This commentary originates from VanEck Associates Corporation (“VanEck”) and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any security.

VanEck’s opinions stated in this commentary may deviate from opinions presented by other VanEck departments or companies. Information and opinions in this commentary are based on VanEck’s analysis. Any forecasts and projections contained in the commentary appear from the named sources. All opinions in this commentary are, regardless of source, given in good faith, and may only be valid as of the stated date of this commentary and are subject to change without notice in subsequent versions of the commentary. Any projections, market outlooks or estimates in this material are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions that are solely the opinion of VanEck. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

No investment advice

The commentary is intended only to provide general and preliminary information to investors and shall not be construed as the basis for any investment decision. This commentary has been prepared by VanEck as general information for use of investors to whom the commentary has been distributed, but it is not intended as a personal recommendation of particular financial instruments or strategies and thus it does not provide individually tailored investment advice, and does not take into account the individual investor’s financial situation, existing holdings or liabilities, investment knowledge and experience, investment objective and horizon or risk profile and preferences. The investor must particularly ensure the suitability of an investment as regards his/her financial and tax situation and investment objectives. The investor bears the risk of losses in connection with an investment. Before acting on any information in this publication or report, it is recommendable to consult one’s financial advisor. Forecasts, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary research and the information contained in this material is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or used as investment, tax or legal advice, any recommendation, or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, an interest in any security. References to specific securities and their issuers or sectors are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities or gain exposure to such sectors. Each investor shall make his/her own appraisal of the tax and other financial merits of his/her investment.

Sources

This commentary may be based on or contain information, such as opinions, recommendations, estimates, price targets and valuations which emanate from: VanEck portfolio managers, analysts or representatives, publicly available information, information from other units or Companies of VanEck, or other named sources. To the extent this commentary is based on or contain information emerging from other sources (“Other Sources”) than VanEck (“External Information”), VanEck has deemed the Other Sources to be reliable but neither the VanEck companies, others associated or affiliated with said companies nor any other person, do guarantee the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the External Information.

Limitation of liability

VanEck and its associated and affiliated companies assume no liability as regards to any investment, divestment or retention decision taken by the investor on the basis of this commentary. In no event will VanEck or other associated and affiliated companies be liable for direct, indirect or incidental, special or consequential damages resulting from the information in this publication or report.

Risk information

The risk of investing in certain financial instruments, is generally high, as their market value is exposed to a lot of different factors such as the operational and financial conditions of the relevant company, growth prospects, change in interest rates, the economic and political environment, foreign exchange rates, shifts in market sentiments etc. Where an investment or security is denominated in a different currency to the investor’s currency of reference, changes in rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value, price or income of or from that investment to the investor. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Estimates of future performance are based on assumptions that may not be realized. When investing in individual shares, the investor may lose all or part of the investments.

Conflicts of interest

VanEck, its affiliates or staff of VanEck companies, may perform services for, solicit business from, hold long or short positions in, or otherwise be interested in the investments (including derivatives) of any company mentioned in this commentary. To limit possible conflicts of interest and counter the abuse of inside knowledge, the representatives, portfolio managers and analysts of VanEck are subject to internal rules on sound ethical conduct, the management of inside information, handling of unpublished research material, contact with other units of VanEck and personal account dealing. The internal rules have been prepared in accordance with applicable legislation and relevant industry standards. The object of the internal rules is for example to ensure that no analyst will abuse or cause others to abuse confidential information. This commentary has been prepared following the VanEck Conflict of Interest Policy.

Distribution restriction

This commentary is not intended for, and must not be distributed to private customers. No part of this material may be reproduced in full or in part in any form, or referred to in any other publication without express written permission of VanEck. ©2017, VanEck.

Index Descriptions

All indices named in the commentary are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in the Fund. An index’s performance is not illustrative of the Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.

Gold Supported by Cracks in Market Confidence

Gold Supported by Cracks in Market Confidence

Gold Supported by Cracks in Market Confidence. Since the financial crisis of 2008-2009, markets have been obsessed with what the Federal Reserve does or doesn’t say or do. This past January, the Fed was relatively quiet, giving no indications of an early year rate increase. This silence has forced the markets to find a second obsession: The Trump Administration. It appears as if there will be at least four more years of obsessing over President Trump’s actions and statements (and perhaps even more importantly, his tweets). The good news for gold is that markets are beginning to reflect reality following the irrational euphoria that occurred after the November U.S. presidential election.

Encouraging Start for Gold As Risks Come Into Focus

The risks of a Trump presidency, which we have been highlighting since the election, are coming into clearer focus. President Trump broke with tradition (again) by indicating that a strong U.S. dollar is not necessarily in the best interest of the United States. His chief trading advisor and incoming U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin also made comments that were interpreted as being unsupportive of the dollar. Controversial executive orders and anti-trade maneuvering have damaged confidence and contributed to further dollar weakness. As a result, gold and gold shares have had an encouraging start to the year, bouncing off oversold yearend levels and benefitting from downward moves in the U.S. dollar. Gold gained $58.38 (5.1%) to end January the month at $1,210.65 per ounce. The NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index1 (GDMNTR) gained 13.7% while the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index2 (MVGDXJTR) advanced 17.9%. Markets are generally fairly good at pricing in demand trends, earnings expectations, technology innovations, and many other things. However, one thing markets have great difficulty putting a price on is uncertainty. Just two weeks in, and it appears that Trump’s administration will be unconventional, controversial, and unpredictable. If we could measure the level of market uncertainty over the next four years, it would likely be off the charts. Many people in the U.S. and internationally are genuinely fearful of the future. With interest rates still at microscopic levels and U.S. stocks at all-time highs, gold, in our view, is an obvious investment alternative as a hedge against the potential for uncertain outcomes that may easily damage other asset classes.

Gold Trading Explained: Physical vs. Paper

Given our gold investing expertise, we are often asked about the nature of the gold market, as some investors are perplexed by the volumes traded. Bloomberg recently released an article in which the CPM Group, a research firm specializing in precious and industrial metals, quantified the global gold market. In 2015, 310,358 tonnes (10 billion ounces) of gold were traded globally. The London over-the-counter (OTC) market amounted to 144,000 tonnes, or 46.3%, of the gold traded, while the New York futures market accounted for 130,350 tonnes or 42.0%. These numbers stand in stark contrast to the physical demand of 4,124 tonnes estimated by Reuters GFMS in 2015. The magnitude of the trading stands out further when considering that there have been approximately 170,000 tonnes of gold mined since the beginning of time. These markets enable a huge portion of gold to trade without moving a single ounce. Participants in the futures market understand and expect this, so trades are only rarely settled with physical gold. The OTC market is a physical market and much of the gold taken for delivery globally is settled through London. However, an OTC ounce can change hands many times in a day, so only a fraction of the gold traded in London is actually moved to a new owner. Thus, the overwhelming volume of gold is traded in paper transactions, not physical metal.

Treat Gold as a Financial Asset, Not as a Traditional Commodity

Although there are many people who believe gold is a useless relic, the millions who invest in gold believe differently. To make money in this sector, it is crucial to understand the behavior of dedicated gold investors. The most important thing to recognize is that gold (and its paper proxies) is used as a financial asset, not a commodity. It is a safe haven3 store of wealth with no liabilities and has been used as such throughout human history. Therefore, the gold price is not driven by the same supply/demand fundamentals as soybeans, copper, or crude, for example. The chart shows a traditional commodity price analysis with surpluses and deficits in the physical gold market since 1988. Notice there are many years when the gold price rose when there was a physical surplus. Likewise, there are also years when the price fell and there was a deficit. This doesn’t make economic sense, which makes a physical supply/demand analysis an unreliable price indicator. We believe there are three possible reasons for this: 1) the global physical market is difficult to measure accurately; 2) the huge above ground stores of gold; and 3) investment drivers in the paper market can overwhelm the physical market.

Gold Supply vs. Price Change

(click to enlarge)

Western Investment Demand is Behind the Wheel

As 88% of global trading volume occurs in New York and London, we believe the dominant driver of gold prices is Western investment demand. Western investors and others use gold to monetize their views on currencies, interest rates, geopolitical risk, systemic financial risk, central bank policies, inflation, deflation, and tail risk.4 These are the primary factors that help drive the gold price. Technicals are also important, as many investors make decisions based on chart patterns. Prices can be volatile, and this volatility is another aspect that tends to attract certain investors. Commercial players, such as jewelers and producers, use these markets to trade metal or hedge, although we suspect this to be a relatively minor driver compared with investment demand. According to the CPM Group, China and India are the two largest gold consumers with 1,803 tonnes of combined physical demand in 2015. While this is 44% of physical metal consumption, these two countries account for just 7.9% (24,518 tonnes) of global gold transactions. India has no modern gold exchanges and the Shanghai Gold Exchange and the emerging Chinese futures market have a very long way to go to rival the Western trading hubs. As such, even though Asia accounts for the majority of physical demand, this region tends to be a secondary driver of gold prices. The local markets in India and China typically trade at a premium or discount to Western markets depending on local demand levels. Asian investors are sensitive to rising prices, as demand tends to increase during periods of price weakness. Asian buying typically helps establish a floor for gold prices, while Western investment demand is usually responsible for driving it higher.

Manipulation in Gold Market? Maybe. But No Lasting Effect.

We are also asked, because of the unusual structure of the gold market, if the gold market is manipulated. We would not be surprised to find that the gold market has been manipulated, but to a lesser extent than other markets. For example, currency markets are often manipulated by governments. Bond markets have been manipulated by the central banks since the financial crisis. Some governments, banks, and hedge funds may occasionally derive some benefit from lower gold prices. We periodically have seen curious price movements caused by large paper market orders at times of thin trading. This has happened especially in weak markets. It would be naïve, however, to dismiss the gold market as “rigged” based on this. While the magnitude of the paper market is remarkable, it is still driven by gold fundamentals. We believe any attempts at manipulation, if successful, can only influence prices over short periods. The gold market is too large for any manipulation to have a lasting effect.
by Joe Foster, Portfolio Manager and Strategist With more than 30 years of gold industry experience, Foster began his gold career as a boots on the ground geologist, evaluating mining exploration and development projects. Foster is Portfolio Manager and Strategist for the Gold and Precious Metals strategy.. Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author and these opinions may change at any time and from time to time. 1NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold. 2MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver. 3Safe haven is an investment that is expected to retain its value or even increase its value in times of market turbulence. 4Tail risk is a form of portfolio risk that arises when the possibility that an investment will move more than three standard deviations from the mean is greater than what is shown by a normal distribution.

Important Disclosures

This commentary originates from VanEck Associates Corporation (“VanEck”) and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any security. VanEck’s opinions stated in this commentary may deviate from opinions presented by other VanEck departments or companies. Information and opinions in this commentary are based on VanEck’s analysis. Any forecasts and projections contained in the commentary appear from the named sources. All opinions in this commentary are, regardless of source, given in good faith, and may only be valid as of the stated date of this commentary and are subject to change without notice in subsequent versions of the commentary. Any projections, market outlooks or estimates in this material are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions that are solely the opinion of VanEck. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

No investment advice

The commentary is intended only to provide general and preliminary information to investors and shall not be construed as the basis for any investment decision. This commentary has been prepared by VanEck as general information for use of investors to whom the commentary has been distributed, but it is not intended as a personal recommendation of particular financial instruments or strategies and thus it does not provide individually tailored investment advice, and does not take into account the individual investor’s financial situation, existing holdings or liabilities, investment knowledge and experience, investment objective and horizon or risk profile and preferences. The investor must particularly ensure the suitability of an investment as regards his/her financial and tax situation and investment objectives. The investor bears the risk of losses in connection with an investment. Before acting on any information in this publication or report, it is recommendable to consult one’s financial advisor. Forecasts, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary research and the information contained in this material is not intended to be, nor should it be construed or used as investment, tax or legal advice, any recommendation, or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy, an interest in any security. References to specific securities and their issuers or sectors are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities or gain exposure to such sectors. Each investor shall make his/her own appraisal of the tax and other financial merits of his/her investment.

Sources

This commentary may be based on or contain information, such as opinions, recommendations, estimates, price targets and valuations which emanate from: VanEck portfolio managers, analysts or representatives, publicly available information, information from other units or Companies of VanEck, or other named sources. To the extent this commentary is based on or contain information emerging from other sources (“Other Sources”) than VanEck (“External Information”), VanEck has deemed the Other Sources to be reliable but neither the VanEck companies, others associated or affiliated with said companies nor any other person, do guarantee the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the External Information.

Limitation of liability

VanEck and its associated and affiliated companies assume no liability as regards to any investment, divestment or retention decision taken by the investor on the basis of this commentary. In no event will VanEck or other associated and affiliated companies be liable for direct, indirect or incidental, special or consequential damages resulting from the information in this publication or report.

Risk information

The risk of investing in certain financial instruments, is generally high, as their market value is exposed to a lot of different factors such as the operational and financial conditions of the relevant company, growth prospects, change in interest rates, the economic and political environment, foreign exchange rates, shifts in market sentiments etc. Where an investment or security is denominated in a different currency to the investor’s currency of reference, changes in rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value, price or income of or from that investment to the investor. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Estimates of future performance are based on assumptions that may not be realized. When investing in individual shares, the investor may lose all or part of the investments.

Conflicts of interest

VanEck, its affiliates or staff of VanEck companies, may perform services for, solicit business from, hold long or short positions in, or otherwise be interested in the investments (including derivatives) of any company mentioned in this commentary. To limit possible conflicts of interest and counter the abuse of inside knowledge, the representatives, portfolio managers and analysts of VanEck are subject to internal rules on sound ethical conduct, the management of inside information, handling of unpublished research material, contact with other units of VanEck and personal account dealing. The internal rules have been prepared in accordance with applicable legislation and relevant industry standards. The object of the internal rules is for example to ensure that no analyst will abuse or cause others to abuse confidential information. This commentary has been prepared following the VanEck Conflict of Interest Policy.

Distribution restriction

This commentary is not intended for, and must not be distributed to private customers. No part of this material may be reproduced in full or in part in any form, or referred to in any other publication without express written permission of VanEck. ©2017, VanEck.

Index Descriptions

All indices named in the commentary are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in the Fund. An index’s performance is not illustrative of the Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.