Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-02-15 17:17Core Viewpoint - The recent fluctuations in gold prices are primarily driven by the release of the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which has influenced market expectations regarding interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, leading to a significant rebound in gold prices after a period of volatility [3][6]. Group 1: Market Reactions - On February 14, 2026, gold prices in China saw significant increases, with Chow Sang Sang's price rising to 1551 RMB per gram, up 27 RMB from the previous day, and Lao Miao Gold increasing to 1565 RMB per gram, up 36 RMB [5]. - The international futures market reacted sharply, with April gold futures closing at $5063.80 per ounce, a 2.33% increase, and March silver futures at $77.27 per ounce, up 2.10% [4]. - The fluctuations in gold prices are closely tied to the movements in the international market, with domestic pricing reflecting changes in global gold prices almost immediately [4][5]. Group 2: Influencing Factors - The primary factors influencing gold prices include geopolitical risks, market expectations regarding central bank policies, particularly the Federal Reserve, and speculative trading activities [7][8]. - Geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East, have heightened demand for gold as a safe-haven asset, providing a solid support base for prices [7]. - The expectation of interest rate cuts, particularly following the soft CPI data, has reduced the opportunity cost of holding gold, making it more attractive to investors [7][8]. Group 3: Institutional Perspectives - Major investment banks, including JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank, have increased their holdings in gold ETFs, indicating a bullish outlook on gold despite recent volatility [8][9]. - Research reports from various banks have raised their price targets for gold by the end of 2026, with Deutsche Bank setting a target of $6000 per ounce and JPMorgan raising it to $6150 per ounce, citing ongoing demand from central banks and geopolitical risks [9]. - UBS has provided a scenario analysis suggesting that if geopolitical risks escalate, gold prices could reach $7200 per ounce, while maintaining current monetary policies could see prices drop to around $4600 [9]. Group 4: Changing Valuation Logic - The traditional correlation between gold prices and U.S. Treasury yields is weakening, with a growing emphasis on gold's monetary attributes as a store of value amid changing geopolitical dynamics [10][11]. - The total value of global gold reserves is now comparable to that of U.S. Treasury debt, indicating a significant shift in gold's role within the global financial system [11].