Gold holds near $5,000 as Iran conflict tests safe-haven demand
Gold stayed near $5,000 an ounce on Tuesday (spot about $5,001.36, US futures around $5,005.20) as the Iran war entered its 18th day. Analysts say the flat move reflects a stronger dollar, expectations the Federal Reserve may pause or raise rates, and gold’s already elevated level earlier this year, along with higher oil prices that could heighten inflation and keep dollar assets attractive. Some observers also note gold is behaving more like a speculative asset than a hedge amid the volatility.
