September 9, 2016 -- Precious metals markets surged Tuesday to open the holiday-shortened week. But they gave back some of those gains Wednesday and Thursday. As of this Friday recording, metals markets are back on the rebound.

Precious metals investors must contend with uncertainty surrounding the economy, the upcoming election, and the timing and direction of the Federal Reserve’s next policy move. The Fed meets September 20th – 21st to decide whether to keep stimulating the stock and bond markets. Propping up financial assets may not be the Fed’s stated purpose, but it has been the major effect of its ultra-low interest rate policies and bond buying campaigns.

Lately, Fed officials are pushing the narrative of moderate economic growth and a tightening jobs market.

If the economic picture really is as robust as the Fed paints it, then the central bank should be raising rates. Perhaps Janet Yellen and company are worried doing so would trigger a stock market meltdown before the election. Some polls now show Donald Trump running even with Hillary Clinton among likely voters. That’s making a lot of people in Washington nervous, including Fed officials.

Live prices at MoneyMetals.com show gold currently trading at $1,337.50 per ounce on the global market, and silver is coming in at $19.53.