果然财经|金店询多买少，金银价暴跌记者探店，现在买金还合适吗

Core Viewpoint - The international precious metals market experienced a historic downturn from January 29 to 30, with COMEX gold futures hitting a peak of $5626.8 per ounce before plummeting, leading to a maximum drop of over 12% and a final closing price of $4884.36 per ounce, marking a single-day decline of 10.18%, the largest since April 1980. Silver saw an even steeper decline, with a single-day drop of 19.98% and a maximum intraday drop of approximately 35.89% [1][12]. Market Reaction - In Jinan's core shopping district, gold stores reported increased foot traffic but low purchasing activity, with many consumers inquiring about prices but refraining from buying despite a drop of over 100 yuan per gram in gold prices [2]. - A national enterprise gold store noted a significant increase in customer visits following the price drop, particularly over the weekend, with sales of gold and silver bars rising [5]. - Some consumers expressed caution about purchasing gold, anticipating further price declines, while others opted to buy silver products, believing the price would not drop significantly [6]. Investment Behavior - Professional investors remained active in the market, with many purchasing physical gold bars from banks, leading to reports of gold bars being out of stock at several banks [8]. - The price drop was attributed to market reactions to the potential appointment of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chair, which raised concerns about monetary policy tightening and subsequently pressured gold prices [12][14]. Long-term Outlook - Experts suggest that while the short-term market is influenced by changes in Federal Reserve leadership, the long-term outlook for precious metals remains positive due to ongoing demand from central banks and persistent safe-haven interest [14][15]. - The global demand for gold is projected to exceed 5000 tons in 2025, with a total demand value of $555 billion, reflecting a 45% year-on-year increase [15]. Consumer Guidance - Experts recommend that consumers differentiate between purchasing gold for personal use versus investment, advising against speculative trading and emphasizing the importance of understanding market dynamics [16]. - Banks have begun adjusting their gold investment policies to manage risks associated with market volatility, including raising entry thresholds for gold investment products [17][18].