Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant rise of gold prices and the implications for the global monetary order, particularly focusing on the increasing role of the Chinese yuan as a potential alternative to the US dollar in international trade and finance [3][4][5]. Group 1: Gold Price Surge - On October 7, 2025, gold prices reached a historic high of $4000 per ounce, marking an increase of over 50% within the year [3]. - This surge is attributed to the Federal Reserve's decision to restart interest rate cuts and a notable decline in the US dollar index, which has dropped nearly 10% this year [3]. - The rise in gold prices reflects a broader market sentiment seeking alternatives to the dollar amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties [3][4]. Group 2: Yuan's Internationalization - As of Q1 2025, the yuan accounted for 2.12% of global foreign reserves, ranking sixth, significantly lower than the dollar (57.74%) and euro (20.06) [4]. - Despite China's growing economic influence, the yuan's international status does not yet match this influence, indicating a need for a multi-faceted approach to enhance its global role [4][5]. - A notable shift is occurring, with an increasing number of enterprises opting for yuan settlements in cross-border transactions, surpassing dollar settlements for the first time in Q2 2025 [5][6]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - A survey conducted by Renmin University revealed that 68% of enterprises used yuan for cross-border trade settlements in Q4 2024, with 71% citing asset security as the primary reason [6][9]. - The yuan's appeal is growing due to its perceived stability and usability, as companies seek to avoid reliance on the dollar [9][10]. - The influx of foreign capital into Chinese assets, particularly after the Fed's interest rate cuts, indicates a shift in investor sentiment towards the yuan [9][10]. Group 4: Infrastructure Development - The establishment of the Digital Yuan International Operation Center in Shanghai aims to enhance the yuan's usability in cross-border transactions, supporting a more integrated financial infrastructure [12][14]. - The center's launch is part of a broader strategy to create a transaction-driven infrastructure for the yuan, moving from policy-driven to market-driven adoption [12][15]. - The digital yuan's infrastructure is designed to facilitate seamless transactions, ensuring compatibility with existing systems while enhancing liquidity and efficiency [14][15]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The article emphasizes the need for a dual-driven model of "yuan + digital currency" to enhance the yuan's role in global trade and finance [18]. - The transition of the yuan from a "optional" asset to a "must-have" currency in global markets requires comprehensive financial reforms and international collaboration [18][19]. - The evolving global monetary landscape suggests that the yuan is positioned to play a significant role in reshaping future financial systems, driven by market choices rather than mere policy directives [19].