Core Viewpoint - Gold prices have reached record highs, surpassing the $4,000 mark, driven by investor demand for safe havens amid economic and political uncertainties [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Futures prices increased by 1.4% to $4,058.60 per troy ounce, with an earlier peak of $4,061.20 during the session [1] - Concerns over the U.S. government shutdown and political instability in France and Japan have contributed to market volatility, further fueling the gold price rally [1] Group 2: Influencing Factors - Expectations for additional U.S. interest rate cuts are supporting the bullish trend in gold prices [1] - Strong inflows into exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and ongoing purchases by central banks are also boosting demand for bullion [1]