Platinum futures (contracts for future delivery) rose above $1,800 an ounce after recovering from a two-week low, supported by a weaker US dollar and stronger demand for precious metals. The move followed dovish comments from Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller, who said he would favor leaving interest rates unchanged if inflation continues to ease. Investors subsequently reduced bets on a Federal Reserve rate hike this month. Traders are awaiting US jobs data for further signals about the central bank’s rate outlook. Renewed fighting in the Gulf and higher oil prices have kept inflation concerns active, potentially complicating the Federal Reserve’s policy path. Industrial demand for platinum is expected to increase 9% this year to 2.24 million ounces, according to the World Platinum Investment Council. Valterra Platinum identified China’s rapidly expanding hydrogen-truck sector as a potential source of additional demand, estimating that global demand could rise by about 6 million ounces if hydrogen trucks account for 20% of the global fleet.