Silver price hits $90 for first time and gold price hovers near record high – here's why precious metals are rallying
The Economic Times·2026-01-14 12:50

Core Insights - Silver has surged past $90 an ounce for the first time, while gold is trading near its all-time high, driven by expectations of further US rate cuts, political pressure on the Federal Reserve, and heightened geopolitical tensions [1][2][4]. Price Movements - Silver jumped as much as 5.3% to $91.5535 an ounce, while gold traded within $10 of its record peak [2][12]. - As of 12:31 p.m. in Singapore, silver was up 4.6% at $90.9590 an ounce, and gold climbed 0.9% to $6,626.43, close to its record high of $4,634.55 [12]. Economic Factors - Lower US inflation data has contributed to bullish sentiment in precious metals, although the figures were noted to be artificially suppressed by a prolonged government shutdown [3]. - The Federal Reserve is expected to pause rate cuts for several months, but swaps markets are pricing in at least two additional cuts later this year [3]. Political and Geopolitical Influences - Political pressure on the Federal Reserve has increased demand for safe-haven assets, with concerns over the independence of the Fed following potential criminal charges against Chair Jerome Powell [4]. - Geopolitical tensions, including US actions in Venezuela and threats regarding Greenland, as well as protests in Iran, have further driven investors towards gold and silver [7]. Market Predictions - Citigroup has raised its three-month price forecasts for gold and silver to $5,000 and $100 an ounce, respectively [8]. - Analysts suggest that silver could reach $150 an ounce by year-end, supported by strong speculative buying and a broader rotation into commodities [9]. Supply Dynamics - Silver's performance has been influenced by ongoing supply tightness and fears of potential tariffs from a US Section 232 investigation, which could limit silver flows into the global market [10][11]. - Heavy speculative buying and elevated trading volumes on major exchanges indicate strong investment inflows [11].