Overview

• The price of gold is approaching $4,000 per ounce after a rapid rise this year, according to a New York Times report cited by Ukrinform.
• Year-to-date gains are roughly 50%, with the metal setting a series of fresh records in recent weeks.
• Analysts say investors are shifting away from U.S. assets during political turmoil that includes a government shutdown.
• Central banks have increased purchases, adding structural support to safe-haven flows into bullion.
• The rally puts gold on track for its strongest year since 1979, after first topping $3,800 per ounce on September 29.