Jin Rong Jie·2026-02-24 02:06Core Viewpoint - The precious metals sector has experienced a significant surge, driven by geopolitical risks and favorable macroeconomic conditions, leading to increased demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver [1][2][3]. Group 1: Market Performance - Precious metals stocks saw substantial gains, with notable increases such as Xiaocheng Technology rising over 13%, Hunan Silver hitting the daily limit, and Sichuan Gold increasing by over 9% [1]. - Spot gold prices broke above $5200 per ounce for the first time since January 30, marking a nearly 2% increase within the day [1]. - The Shanghai Futures Exchange's main silver contract rose by 13%, reaching 22,366 yuan per kilogram [1]. Group 2: Price Forecasts - UBS has raised its gold price target to $6200 per ounce, citing ongoing geopolitical risks and a favorable macro environment as key drivers for rising gold prices [2]. - Goldman Sachs maintains a bullish mid-term outlook on gold, predicting prices will gradually rise to $5400 per ounce by the end of 2026, despite a temporary slowdown in central bank gold purchases [2]. Group 3: Economic and Geopolitical Factors - U.S. economic and employment data have shown positive performance, but concerns about inflation have delayed interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve [3]. - Geopolitical tensions, including military threats against Iran and ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Russia, have heightened demand for safe-haven assets [3]. - The uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policies, particularly following a Supreme Court ruling against certain tariffs, has contributed to market volatility and increased interest in precious metals [3]. Group 4: Market Trends During Holidays - During the Spring Festival, the precious metals market experienced two phases: initial declines due to expectations of delayed interest rate cuts, followed by a recovery driven by geopolitical tensions [4]. - The U.S. military's deployment in the Middle East and disappointing economic data have combined to create a renewed demand for gold and silver, pushing prices higher towards the end of the holiday period [4].