Zheng Quan Ri Bao·2025-10-08 16:05Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in gold prices is attributed to increased global macroeconomic uncertainty, leading investors to seek gold as a hedge against risk, with both COMEX and spot gold prices rising over 50% year-to-date [1]. Group 1: Gold Price Trends - On October 7, COMEX gold reached $4000 per ounce, and on October 8, it peaked at $4071.5 per ounce, while spot gold hit a high of $4049.64 per ounce [1]. - The increase in gold prices is seen as a result of a combination of long-term structural factors, short-term influences from the Federal Reserve's unexpected rate cuts, and rising gold ETF sizes [1][2]. Group 2: Market Sentiment and Consumer Behavior - Analysts believe that the current phase represents the early stage of a third wave of a bull market for gold, with the Federal Reserve's independence being compromised, further enhancing gold's reserve value [2]. - Despite rising gold prices, consumer demand for gold jewelry remains strong during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, with many consumers still purchasing gold [2]. Group 3: Consumption Trends - In the first half of the year, retail sales of gold and silver jewelry reached 194.8 billion yuan, marking an 11.3% increase, indicating that while demand volume may be declining, the overall consumption value is on the rise [3]. - The World Gold Council reports a divergence between gold consumption value and demand volume, suggesting that consumer purchasing intent remains robust despite high prices, particularly among younger demographics [3].