Stocks drift but platinum surges

Markets tread water awaiting trade talk news
“Buoyed by Friday’s strong payroll report, markets were able to shrug off the weekend’s China trade data. Now investors wait to see what comes of the latest talks between the US and China. Some kind of accord would be welcome, but they might even be happy if the two sides merely agree to keep talking. To jaw jaw is better than to (trade) war war, it seems. Much of course rests on this week’s US inflation data, which still retains its power to shock.”

Platinum gets a boost as gold becomes pricier
“Gold has been the go-to for many investors in these uncertain times, but the metal’s gains mean that the search is on for alternatives. Platinum has been one of the beneficiaries of the hunt for other stores of value, and as demand in China picks up there are hopes that this metal can replicate some of gold’s impressive run.”