Safe Heaven hedge – Gold has extended its longest winning streak since 1973, underscoring its role as a core safe-haven asset during periods of systemic stress. With a key global trade chokepoint effectively locked and geopolitical instability intensifying, investors have decisively rotated away from risk assets toward bullion.

Geopolitical Tensions – US President Donald Trump signaled that military operations against Iran could persist for a month or longer, heightening fears of a prolonged conflict. In response, Iran declared the Strait of Humroz closed and warned it would target vessels attempting transit. Given that nearly 20% of global oil supply moves through this corridor, crude prices have surged, amplifying inflationary and growth concerns worldwide.

Dollar Strength – Despite strong safe-haven demand, gold and silver witnessed intermittent profit-booking as the US dollar strengthened to five-week high. The greenback gained support from safe-haven inflows and expectations that rising energy prices could stoke inflation, potentially delaying Federal Reserve rate cuts and supporting US yields in the near term. Pressure also intensified as the ISM Manufacturing Prices Index leaped to 70.5, a 11.5 point jump that signaled reignited inflation.

Technical Triggers   

After achieving the target of $5400 (~ ₹1,67,000), Gold prices are consolidating and building a base for the new bullish momentum towards $5500 (~ ₹1,72,000) and $5600 (~ ₹1,76,000).

After achieving the target of $93 (~ ₹2,85,000), Silver prices are expected to consolidate and build a base around $85 and $95 before resuming for the new bullish momentum towards the next resistance level of $100 (~ Rs 300,000).

Dr.Renisha Chainani, Head- Research, Augmont