Gold’s Ascent Continues – Friday, 17 October

Gold is experiencing a significant surge, nearing record highs amidst global economic uncertainties. Investors are flocking to the precious metal as a safe haven asset, driving substantial weekly gains. A confluence of factors, including renewed US-China trade tensions, US government shutdown concerns, and expectations of US interest rate cuts, are fueling the rally.

  • Gold climbed to around $4,360 per ounce.
  • The price is on track for its strongest weekly advance since March 2020.
  • Renewed US–China trade tensions are contributing to price increases.
  • Concerns over the ongoing US government shutdown are supporting the price.
  • Expectations of US rate cuts, driven by signs of a weakening labor market, are further boosting the metal.
  • Investors have nearly fully priced in a 25 bps cut this month, with another likely in December.
  • Gold has surged more than 60% so far this year.
  • Central bank purchases, ETF inflows, and strong demand for safe assets are bolstering the price.

This indicates a strong bullish trend for gold. The confluence of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and anticipated monetary policy easing is creating a favorable environment for the asset. Heightened risk aversion is causing investors to seek the safety and stability that gold traditionally offers, driving up demand and consequently its price. This suggests that gold may continue to perform well in the short to medium term, as these underlying factors persist.