23-Sep (USAGOLD) — Gold extended sharply lower in overseas trading, pushing below the $1700 level for the first time in 7-weeks, as the global asset rout continues. The dollar remains well bid, trading near 7-month highs, bolstered by flight out of stocks and out of the euro.

The G20 vowed “strong and co-ordinated” support in their communiqué late yesterday, saying “We commit to take all necessary actions to preserve the stability of banking systems and financial markets as required.” However, the absence of specifics did little to reassure markets. The market now looks to weekend IMF and World Bank meetings for guidance.

Meanwhile, Congress is embroiled in yet another partisan battle, this time centered on a continuing spending resolution. The Republican controlled House passed a spending bill yesterday, but the Democrat controlled Senate has vowed to shoot it down. Failure to pass a resolution could result in a government shut-down next week. This is exactly the kind of behavior that promoted S&P to downgrade the US.

• France business confidence falls to 99 in Sep, below market expectations, vs 105 in Aug; production outlook tumbles to -29.
• Italy retail sales (sa) -0.1% m/m in Jul, below market expectations of +0.2%, vs negative revised -0.3% in Jun; -2.4% y/y.