Global Markets: Taiwan Hits Record High as Gold Surges Past $5,100 Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Market Performance - The Taiwan benchmark index reached an all-time high of 34,202.05 points, gaining 1.8% in a single session [2][9] - The Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong increased by over 2%, with the Hang Seng Tech Index rising 3% and the Hang Seng Materials Index jumping 4% [3][9] Precious Metals and Cryptocurrency - Gold prices surged over 1% to $5,164.98 per ounce, while Spot Silver climbed more than 3% to $87.49 per ounce, indicating a flight to safe-haven assets [4][9] - Bitcoin experienced a decline of 5%, falling below the $65,000 mark, as investors shifted capital from volatile digital assets to precious metals [5][9] Geopolitical Tensions - Russia launched a significant missile and drone offensive targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing extensive damage to the power grid [6][9] - The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry urged Iraq to respect Kuwait's sovereign rights and adhere to international agreements to maintain regional stability [7] Travel and Infrastructure Issues - Delta Air Lines faced system issues affecting check-in kiosks, leading to significant delays at major hubs, although no cancellations were reported [8][9] - Air Canada announced the suspension of flights to Puerto Vallarta due to a deteriorating security situation in the region [10]