Core Viewpoint - The international gold price has surged dramatically, breaking the $4000 per ounce mark, driven by various geopolitical and economic factors, leading to significant investment returns for investors [1][3][5]. Price Movement - Gold futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange reached a historic high of $4081 per ounce, while London spot gold peaked at $4049.64 per ounce. As of October 10, COMEX gold prices were fluctuating around $3981 [3]. - The price of spot gold rose from $2623.68 per ounce at the beginning of the year to $3984.595 per ounce by October 7, marking a 52% increase. Notably, the jump from $3500 to $4000 occurred in just 35 days, setting a record for the fastest value increase [3]. Economic and Political Influences - The U.S. government shutdown has contributed to the gold price surge, as investors seek safe-haven assets amid uncertainty regarding economic data releases [5]. - The return of former President Trump has heightened global market uncertainty, particularly with his imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminum, which escalated trade tensions [5]. - The depreciation of the U.S. dollar, with the dollar index dropping 9.2% since January 20, has prompted a shift of funds from dollar assets to gold [5]. Global Central Bank Activity - Central banks worldwide have increased gold purchases, with China's official gold reserves reaching 74.06 million ounces by the end of September, marking an increase for 11 consecutive months [9]. - Global central bank gold purchases are expected to reach 900 tons in 2025, double the average from 2016 to 2021, indicating a strong demand for gold as a reserve asset [9]. Market Dynamics - A rare phenomenon has emerged where gold and U.S. stock markets have risen simultaneously, challenging traditional market behavior [11]. - The increase in gold prices has also led to a rise in silver prices, with silver surpassing $50 per ounce for the first time since 2011 [13]. Future Outlook - There is a divergence in market sentiment regarding future gold prices, with some analysts warning of potential corrections while others remain bullish, predicting prices could reach $4200 or even $5000 [15][17]. - The ongoing trend of de-dollarization and the reshaping of the global monetary order are expected to provide continued support for gold prices in the medium to long term [17][20].