Gold Prices Hit Record $3,086 as Trade War Fears Roil Markets

Investor demand for safe-haven assets surges following Trump's 25% auto tariffs and anticipation of broader levies next week.

Gold prices reached an all-time high of $3,086.70 per ounce, marking the 18th record high of 2025 and a 17% quarterly gain, the best since 1986.
President Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on auto imports and expectations of additional tariffs next week have heightened economic uncertainty.
Global stock markets, including the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq, posted significant losses as trade war concerns intensified.
Copper prices have surged 30% year-to-date, driven by fears of impending tariffs and strong demand from China and Europe's defense infrastructure projects.
Institutional investors and central banks are stockpiling gold, with inventories in New York reaching record highs, while analysts predict prices could climb to $3,500 within 18 months.