Gold prices (XAU/USD) are in a consolidation phase following the impressive rally that pushed them to an all-time high during Thursday’s Asian trading session. Recent US Retail Sales data and hawkish comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Wednesday have provided support to the US Dollar (USD), allowing it to gain some positive momentum. Investors are keenly observing market trends as gold prices level off, with many expecting further movements based on economic data releases and global market trends. The sentiment around gold remains bullish, although profit-taking is typical after such significant surges.