2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-10-21 07:41Core Viewpoint - Gold prices have surged significantly this year, reaching a historical high of $4,394 per ounce, with a year-to-date increase of over 65% [1][9]. Regulatory Actions - Due to the rapid increase in gold prices, institutions are tightening regulations on gold trading. Everbright Bank announced it would gradually terminate business relationships with clients who have no positions in gold trading starting October 20 [3][5]. - Other banks, including Industrial Bank, China Merchants Bank, and China Construction Bank, have also issued warnings regarding market risks in precious metals trading [7]. Margin Adjustments - The Shanghai Gold Exchange has raised margin requirements for gold trading contracts. For example, the standard margin for certain contracts will increase from 38% to 40%, and for silver contracts, it will rise from 41% to 43% [7][8]. Market Dynamics - The surge in gold prices is attributed to rising political and trade uncertainties, declining real interest rates, a weakening dollar, and increasing government debt. Analysts predict that gold prices could reach $4,700 per ounce by the first quarter of next year [9]. - The proportion of gold in global foreign exchange reserves has increased from 24% in June to 30%, while the dollar's share has decreased from 43% to 40% [9]. Fund Management Responses - Fund companies are limiting subscription amounts due to the influx of capital into gold-related funds. For instance, the maximum subscription amount for certain funds has been reduced to 10,000 yuan [11][12]. - As of October 20, the scale of gold-themed ETFs has surpassed 200 billion yuan, indicating strong investor interest in gold as a safe-haven asset [12].