Safe-Haven Demand Fuels Gold Rally
The comments below are an edited and abridged synopsis of an article by Glenn Wilkins, Baystreet
Safe-haven gold reached a historic high last week, marking its fourth consecutive weekly increase, driven by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties surrounding China. Spot gold surged to $2,394.87 US per ounce, peaking at $2,400.35 earlier in the session, with a weekly gain of almost 3%. Gold futures in the US also rose to $2,411.70, up by 1.6%. Experts anticipate further upward movement in gold due to central bank acquisitions and heightened demand for safe-haven assets amid rising global tensions.
Concerns over the Chinese economy, coupled with fears of a global economic slowdown, have spurred demand for safe-haven assets, boosting the gold price. Additionally, Iran’s response to Israel’s attack on its Syrian embassy aims to avoid significant escalation, adding to geopolitical uncertainties. Investors are closely monitoring data indicating a contraction in China’s March exports and imports, reflecting challenges in its economic recovery.
Moreover, the softer-than-expected US Producer Price Index (PPI) following March’s high Consumer Price Index (CPI) has influenced market sentiment. Spot silver also experienced a surge, reaching $29.13 US per ounce, its highest level since early 2021. The combination of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and shifts in market indicators underscores the attractiveness of precious metals like gold and silver as safe-haven investments in turbulent times.