Gold prices climbed approximately 4% over the week, settling higher despite a 1.7% drop on Friday as traders weighed a tense geopolitical landscape.
The volatility comes as former US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum for an unspecified deal, according to a statement released on Friday.
The spot price of gold fluctuated throughout the week, rising along with global indices even as oil prices continued their ascent into the long weekend. The late-week sell-off trimmed some gains, but the metal's overall performance highlights its role as a safe-haven asset.
The market is now closely watching the fallout from Trump's deadline, which could trigger significant market uncertainty. Gold's performance contrasts with silver, which saw a more modest 2.5% gain over the same period, indicating investor preference for gold as a primary hedge.
The ultimatum from the former president has injected a fresh dose of uncertainty into global markets. Investors are weighing the potential for increased geopolitical instability, which traditionally boosts demand for safe-haven assets like gold. The 4% weekly gain, even with Friday's downturn, suggests a flight to safety is already underway.
Market sentiment remains on edge, with the potential impact of the deadline being a primary focus. Failure to reach a deal could lead to heightened volatility across asset classes, including broader stock market fluctuations, as the risk-off sentiment intensifies.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.