Lagos — Gold prices surged to an unprecedented level above $2,900, primarily driven by heightened safe-haven demand following President Donald Trump’s new trade policy announcement.
The President declared new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, with plans to implement reciprocal tariffs matching those imposed by other countries. The decision has intensified concerns about an escalating global trade war.
Market participants are closely monitoring several crucial events this week, with attention turning to Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s semi-annual testimony to lawmakers, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, which could provide essential insights into future US monetary policy direction.
Also, investors are keenly awaiting the release of Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) data, as these indicators could affect the trajectory of US interest rates, especially as the market fears the inflationary impact of Trump’s tariff policies.
Additionally, China’s central bank has demonstrated continued commitment to its gold diversification strategy, marking a third consecutive month of gold reserve expansion in January, despite record-high prices.
The introduction of a pilot program potentially freeing up approximately $27 billion from insurers for gold investments underscores China’s strategic approach to precious metals. The sustained central banks’ demand is expected to provide strong long-term support for gold prices, reinforcing the metal’s position as a strategic asset in the global financial landscape.
