Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-22 15:33Core Viewpoint - International gold prices experienced a significant drop after weeks of increase, with prices hovering around $4030 per ounce as of October 22, 2023. Domestic gold stocks and jewelry prices also saw substantial declines. Experts suggest that while the current drop is influenced by geopolitical factors, technical aspects, and the dollar's performance, the long-term outlook for gold remains positive [1][3][9]. Price Trends - Since 2025, international gold prices have shown an overall upward trend, rising from $3384 per ounce in early September to a peak of $4381 per ounce in mid-October, marking an increase of approximately $1000 in just over a month [3]. - Domestic gold jewelry prices also surged, with Chow Tai Fook's price rising from 1027 yuan per gram on September 1 to 1292 yuan per gram by October 21, reflecting a nearly 30% increase [3]. Recent Market Movements - On October 21, international gold prices plummeted, with spot gold dropping below $4100 per ounce and hitting a low of $4080.87 per ounce, resulting in a single-day decline of 6.3%, the largest since April 2013 [3]. - The downward trend continued on October 22, with prices fluctuating and briefly falling below $4010 per ounce. Domestic gold stocks opened with declines between 6% and 10%, although some recovery was noted by the end of the day, with closing declines generally between 2% and 5% [3][6]. Consumer Behavior - A visit to several gold stores revealed a significant decrease in customer traffic, with sales personnel eager to assist the few customers present. Some stores introduced a price-lock service, allowing customers to secure current prices with a deposit [6][8]. - Sales staff indicated a preference for promoting fixed-price items like bracelets and pendants, while items priced based on fluctuating gold prices received less attention. The recent volatility in gold prices has led to a noticeable drop in customer volume compared to previous years [8]. Expert Analysis - Experts attribute the recent drop in gold prices to a combination of factors, including a temporary easing of geopolitical risks, technical corrections after a significant price increase, and fluctuations in the dollar's value. The cumulative increase in gold prices since 2025 has reached 60%, with silver prices rising by 80%, indicating an overbought market [9].