Gold prices surged to new record highs in Shanghai, London, and New York as China’s insurance sector began investing in the precious metal. Meanwhile, silver prices neared 12-year highs due to the looming threat of US trade tariffs, causing a surge in bullion movement to New York and tightening availability in London.
Global stock markets experienced a downturn, with the MSCI index dropping to a two-week low amid concerns over the potential impact of upcoming US trade tariffs on foreign-made autos. Shanghai gold prices saw a significant increase, marking the fifth-largest daily gain in the past year, driven by Chinese insurance companies entering the market.
London gold prices reached $3086 per Troy ounce, up 18.2% in 2025, hitting a new daily high in US Dollars. New York’s June futures contract for gold also peaked at nearly $3125, indicating strong investor interest in the precious metal.
Despite silver’s relatively modest price increase compared to gold, the physical silver market exhibited significant tightness. Analysts noted a surge in silver bar deliveries to US warehouses, driven by arbitrage opportunities and preparations ahead of potential tariffs, resulting in forward market backwardation and high lease rates.
While lease rates for short-term silver loans in London slightly eased, they remained historically high, reflecting a tight supply situation. Silver bullion prices in London hit $34.57 per Troy ounce, the highest since October, with a notable 19.7% increase in 2025.
US silver stockpiles in CME-approved warehouses surged by 47.0% since the year began, as market participants speculated on the inclusion of silver in US trade tariffs under the new Trump administration. The uncertainty surrounding trade policies has led to increased volatility in the silver market.
At the Financial Times’ Commodities Global Summit, industry experts highlighted the impact of Trump’s trade-related decisions on market dynamics. The entry of four life-insurance companies into the Shanghai Gold Exchange signaled a significant potential buying impulse, with estimates suggesting substantial fund inflows into gold.
The rise in gold and silver prices underscored the ongoing uncertainty in global markets, driven by geopolitical tensions and trade policy shifts. Analysts emphasized the role of precious metals as safe-haven assets in times of economic and political instability.
Overall, the surge in gold and silver prices reflected investors’ growing interest in safe-haven assets amid escalating trade tensions and economic uncertainties. The precious metals market continues to be influenced by geopolitical developments and market volatility, highlighting the enduring appeal of gold and silver as investment options.
📰 Related Articles
- Gold and Silver Prices Soar Amid Record Investor Interest
- How to Invest in Silver Bullion Amid Tariff Threats to Footwear Industry
- Gold and Silver Prices Surge Amid Global Turmoil, Investors Turn to Safe Havens
- Silver Investment Demand Surges Amid Price Volatility and Trade Policy Shifts
- Silver Investing Gains Momentum Amid Record Prices and Supply Deficit