Gold prices fall as markets await Middle East signals

Gold prices retreated on Thursday, March 26, after two consecutive days of gains, as investors paused to assess developments in the Middle East and awaited clearer signals on possible de-escalation that could shape global financial markets and monetary policy.

According to Reuters, spot gold fell 1% to $4,476.51 per ounce as of 05:55 GMT, while US gold futures for April delivery declined 2.1% to $4,457.

Market sentiment remains closely tied to geopolitical developments, particularly the evolving situation involving the United States and Iran.

Kyle Rodda, an analyst at Capital.com, said that in the next 24 to 48 hours, gold prices are likely to react primarily to news surrounding negotiations. He added that more pronounced market movements could emerge early next week, when there may be greater clarity on whether Washington will launch a ground operation in Iran over the weekend.

Other precious metals also moved lower. Spot silver declined 1.9% to $69.90 per ounce, platinum fell 1.4% to $1,893.60, and palladium dropped 2% to $1,394.83.

By Tamilla Hasanova