Gold Surges Past $3,100 as Trump’s Tariffs Ignite Safe-Haven Demand

Gold prices soared to a record high above $3,100 per ounce on Thursday, driven by heightened safe-haven demand after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping 25% tariffs on all automobile imports, starting April 3. The move triggered global market jitters, with stocks in the U.S. and Asia posting sharp losses, prompting investors to flock to gold amid growing fears of a broader trade war.

Spot gold rose 1.2% to $3,056.60 an ounce, after hitting an all-time high of $3,059.30. Gold futures for May delivery climbed 1.5% to settle at $3,099.20, having touched a new record of $3,102 earlier in the day.

Goldman Sachs boosted its 2025 gold price forecast to $3,300 per ounce from $3,100, citing stronger-than-expected demand from central banks, particularly in Asia, and increased ETF inflows. The firm sees gold potentially reaching $3,680 per ounce by year-end 2025 if economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks persist.

Trump’s latest trade measures are set to impact major economies including Japan, South Korea, and the EU, while also pushing U.S. car prices higher — a move that could add inflationary pressure. Additional tariffs targeting key imports like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and industrial metals are expected to be announced on April 2.

Global backlash from countries such as China, Canada, and Mexico raises the risk of retaliatory tariffs, further fueling fears of a global trade war and economic slowdown — both bullish for gold.

Other precious metals also rallied, with silver jumping 3.2% to $35.32/oz and platinum rising 2.07% to $989.40/oz. Meanwhile, copper futures slipped, despite ongoing concerns over tighter supply due to potential U.S. import restrictions.