Gold prices surged in Asian trading Thursday, driven by growing safe-haven demand amid rising Middle East tensions and uncertainty over U.S. trade policy. Spot gold climbed 0.6% to $3,374.94 per ounce, while August futures jumped 1.5% to $3,394.60.
Geopolitical concerns intensified after reports indicated Israel was preparing for potential military action against Iran if nuclear negotiations with the U.S. falter. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the evacuation of personnel from Iraq and nearby regions, heightening fears of conflict. Iran responded with threats to target U.S. bases if provoked, deepening investor anxiety. These developments fueled strong demand for gold and other precious metals, traditionally viewed as safe-haven assets.
Uncertainty surrounding U.S.-China trade talks further boosted gold’s appeal. Despite some progress being reported, a lack of concrete details kept investors on edge. Trump's announcement that he will soon send letters outlining tariff plans to key global partners—dimming hopes for broader trade agreements—also rattled markets. Currently, only a finalized deal with the UK and a framework with China have been disclosed.
A weakening dollar supported gains across metals. Platinum futures rose 0.8% to $1,251.65, a four-year high, while silver gained 0.7% to $36.515, hovering near a 13-year peak. Copper also advanced, with London futures up 0.5% to $9,699.70 per ton and U.S. copper up 0.4% to $4.8242 per pound.
However, Goldman Sachs warned platinum’s rally might be short-lived, projecting a retreat into the $800–$1,150 range due to weaker Chinese demand, declining automotive usage amid EV growth, and rising output from South Africa. Despite a 37.3% year-to-date gain, platinum's sustainability remains in question as market fundamentals shift.


Gold Prices Edge Higher as Markets Await Key U.S. PCE Inflation Data
Spain’s Industrial Output Records Steady Growth in October Amid Revised September Figures
Japan’s Q3 Economic Contraction Deepens as Revised Data Signals Stronger Headwinds
Trump Meets Mexico and Canada Leaders After 2026 World Cup Draw Amid USMCA Tensions
Oil Prices Hold Near Two-Week Highs as Markets Await Fed Rate Cut and Monitor Geopolitical Risks
RBI Cuts Repo Rate to 5.25% as Inflation Cools and Growth Outlook Strengthens
Citi Sets Bullish 2026 Target for STOXX 600 as Fiscal Support and Monetary Easing Boost Outlook
U.S. Stocks End Week Higher as Markets Anticipate Fed Rate Cut
Gold Prices Inch Higher as Fed Rate-Cut Expectations Strengthen
Germany’s Economic Recovery Slows as Trade Tensions and Rising Costs Weigh on Growth
Europe Confronts Rising Competitive Pressure as China Accelerates Export-Led Growth
Russia Stocks Close Flat as MOEX Hits 1-Month High
U.S. Stocks Rise as Cooler Inflation Boosts Hopes for Fed Rate Cut
ECB Signals Steady Rates Ahead as Policymakers Warn of Inflation Risks
UK Job Market Shows Persistent Weakness Ahead of November Budget 



