Group 1: Core Argument - The World Gold Council has proposed that the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) recognize gold as a High-Quality Liquid Asset (HQLA) due to its strong liquidity and orderly market conditions, especially in light of recent market volatility caused by U.S. trade policy uncertainties [2][3][7]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - Major asset management firms on Wall Street are increasingly avoiding long-term U.S. Treasury bonds due to concerns over the growing U.S. budget deficit and debt burden, leading them to favor shorter-term bonds instead [3][6]. - The average daily trading volume of gold in the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) has been higher than that of 7-10 year and 20-year U.S. Treasuries, indicating gold's strong liquidity [7]. Group 3: Regulatory Considerations - There are significant uncertainties regarding whether BCBS will classify gold as HQLA, as some Western central banks fear it could negatively impact the demand for sovereign bonds from the U.S. and Europe [4][9]. - The implementation of Basel III regulations has been delayed in the EU and the UK, which may further postpone any decision on gold's HQLA status [10]. Group 4: Investment Sentiment - Despite uncertainties about gold's HQLA status, global investment institutions continue to show strong interest in gold, driven by geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns [11][14]. - The recent increase in gold prices has been attributed to rising geopolitical risks and inflationary pressures, with some hedge funds adjusting their strategies to capitalize on potential price increases [12][14]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that if gold is recognized as HQLA, it could significantly alter liquidity asset allocation strategies among global asset managers, potentially reducing demand for U.S. Treasuries [9][14]. - The ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and economic conditions are expected to sustain or increase the demand for gold as a safe-haven asset in the coming months [8][15].