Gold Prices Reach Record High Amid Rising Safe-Haven Demand and Fed Rate Decision

Gold prices soared to an all-time high in Asian trading on Wednesday, driven by heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and ongoing trade tariff concerns. Investors maintained a cautious stance ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision, which is expected to provide further clarity on the economic outlook.

Gold Rally Strengthened by Global Uncertainty

Over the past week, gold has seen a strong upward trend as risk appetite weakened. This has been fueled by U.S. President Donald Trump’s continued threats to impose higher trade tariffs, intensifying fears of a potential recession in the United States. The weakening U.S. dollar has further supported gold’s rise, making the precious metal more attractive to investors.

Spot gold climbed 0.1% to reach a record high of $3,039.0 per ounce, while gold futures for May delivery increased to $3,046.12 per ounce.

Geopolitical instability also played a role in gold’s rally, particularly after the collapse of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which reignited tensions in the Middle East. Similarly, the lack of significant progress in Russia-Ukraine ceasefire negotiations further boosted demand for safe-haven assets.

Federal Reserve’s Decision Looms Over Markets

Investors are now awaiting the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting, which is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged at 4.5%. The central bank has expressed uncertainty about the near-term economic outlook as Trump pushes forward with his trade agenda, limiting expectations for imminent rate cuts.

Adding to market concerns, Trump’s fluctuating stance on trade measures against Canada and Mexico has increased uncertainty about the U.S. economic trajectory. The President has warned that additional tariff hikes could take effect as early as April, which could disrupt international trade and add inflationary pressures.

The Federal Reserve is also set to release its updated economic projections, which may offer further insight into how the central bank views economic conditions under Trump’s policies.

Other Precious Metals React to Market Conditions

Following strong gains in recent sessions, other precious metals experienced minor pullbacks on Wednesday.

• Platinum futures fell 0.4% to $1,016.90 per ounce.

• Silver futures dipped 0.5% to $34.55 per ounce.

Copper Prices Remain Strong Amid China’s Economic Stimulus

In industrial metals, copper prices stabilized following a recent surge, supported by optimism surrounding China’s economic policies.

• Benchmark copper futures on the London Metal Exchange declined slightly by 0.1% to $9,901.85 per ton.

• May copper futures gained 0.3%, reaching $5.0213 per pound.

China’s latest fiscal measures aim to boost private spending and economic growth, reinforcing expectations of stronger demand for copper in 2025. As the world’s largest consumer of copper, China’s economic expansion is seen as a key factor in sustaining the metal’s bullish momentum.

Meanwhile, Trump’s planned tariffs on copper could further strain U.S. supply chains, potentially disrupting availability in the near term. If implemented, these tariffs may drive up domestic copper prices and exacerbate supply shortages.

With geopolitical uncertainties, central bank policies, and trade tensions shaping market sentiment, investors are closely monitoring upcoming developments that could further influence commodity markets.

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