Gold Climbs to Record on Bank Woes, Fed Bets and Trade Tensions

Group 1: Gold Market Dynamics - Gold prices have surged to a record high, exceeding $4,280 an ounce, driven by expectations of continued monetary easing by the Federal Reserve and escalating US-China trade tensions [1][4] - The price of gold has increased over 60% this year, supported by central bank purchases, inflows into exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and rising demand for safe-haven assets amid geopolitical uncertainties [4] - Traders are anticipating at least one significant rate cut by the Federal Reserve by year-end, with indications from Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggesting a quarter-point reduction is likely later this month [2][3] Group 2: Silver Market Insights - The silver market is experiencing a liquidity crunch in London, leading to a global search for the metal and pushing benchmark prices above futures prices in New York, with prices reaching over $53 an ounce [6] - Over the past week, more than 15 million ounces of silver have been withdrawn from Comex warehouses in New York, with much of it expected to be sent to London, although strong ETF inflows of nearly 11 million ounces have further tightened London stocks [7] - Silver prices have also seen a significant increase, with a rise of more than 3% on Wednesday, reflecting the tight market conditions [1][6]