"Gold seems like a complex multi personality reaction to political and economic events unfolding. "
AJ, what about the KISS principle?
The GP protracted sideways movement, notwithstanding the odd thump down by the banksters, at or around US1200 is exceptional and demands an exceptional explanation. . In the current gold market the GP can be controlled by one massive buyer standing in the market in a tight buying price range, if they are big enough. Not so surprising considering China's plans for the Renminbi. Consider also that India and/or Russia could be working in concert, they are the senior troika of the BRICS alliance.