Asia-Pacific markets set to open mixed as gold hits fresh record of $5,000

Market Overview - Asia-Pacific markets exhibited mixed trading patterns, with a notable increase in gold prices as investors sought safe-haven assets amid geopolitical uncertainties [1] - Spot gold prices reached a record high of over $5,000 per ounce, specifically trading at $5,033.99 per ounce as of 7:52 a.m. Singapore time [1] Trade Relations - Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will not pursue free trade agreements with China without prior notification, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's warning of a 100% tariff if Canada engages in a trade deal with China [2][3] - Carney emphasized Canada's commitment under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) to notify before pursuing free trade agreements with non-market economies [3] Regional Market Performance - Japan's Nikkei 225 index decreased by 1.52%, while the Topix index fell by 1.76% [3] - In contrast, South Korea's Kospi index increased by 0.64%, and the small-cap Kosdaq index rose by 2.28% [3]