Gold hits new highs, while silver surges to $35, marking a 12-year peak. With central banks buying gold and industrial demand boosting silver, this rally reshapes the market amid global uncertainty.
In a powerful rally that’s reshaping the precious metals landscape, gold prices continued their historic ascent while silver prices surged to levels not seen since 2012, as investors increasingly turn to precious metals amid global economic uncertainty.
Market Highlights
Gold futures (GC=F) touched new historic highs on Tuesday, climbing 0.8% to $2,750 per ounce, while silver futures (SI=F) demonstrated even more dramatic momentum, gaining over 3% to briefly top $34 per ounce – marking its highest level in 12 years.
“I think it’s the declining inflation expectation and also the rotation of assets that tend to perform well with a more dovish Fed,” notes Phil Streible, Blue Line Futures chief market strategist, who anticipates gold reaching $2,850 by year-end.
Record-Breaking Performance
Precious metals have dominated 2024’s financial markets, with silver surging 35% year-to-date and gold climbing 26%, both outpacing the S&P 500’s 19% growth. At the recent London Bullion Market Association conference, JPMorgan analysts projected silver prices to reach $45 per ounce, citing its undervalued position relative to gold and robust investment and industrial demand.
“This bullish view is driven by a sense that silver is undervalued vs gold, less crowded, and supported by multifaceted, versatile demand applications,” according to JPMorgan’s latest analysis.
Global Interest and Industrial Applications Driving Silver Demand
Strong industrial demand continues driving silver’s surge, with applications ranging from semiconductors and electric vehicles to solar panels and medical technology. The metal’s expanding role in military applications adds further pressure to the supply chain, reinforcing its price momentum in the market. Additionally, as reported earlier this month, both Russia and China are increasing their demand for silver, further contributing to the rising prices.
Political and Economic Factors
Market analysts remain focused on key catalysts: the looming U.S. presidential election, shifting trade policies, China’s stimulus plans, Fed policy changes, and the upcoming BRICS meeting on October 22. These factors could significantly impact precious metals’ trajectory in the near term.
Expert Market Outlook
Market experts remain bullish on precious metals, with BofA highlighting gold’s elevated position above the euro in global reserves and continued central bank buying supporting a $2,850 target. Meanwhile, JPMorgan sees silver reaching $45 per ounce on strong industrial demand, though warning of potential political volatility in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The precious metals rally shows little sign of slowing, supported by a combination of investment demand, industrial usage, and macroeconomic factors. While gold continues to set records, silver’s combination of industrial and investment demand could drive further gains, though political uncertainties – particularly around the U.S. presidential election – may impact market dynamics.
Market participants should monitor central bank policies, industrial demand patterns, and political developments that could influence these markets in the coming months.
