Precious metals started the new year higher on Friday, January 2, extending gains after a strong 2025, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid geopolitical tensions and expectations of U.S. interest rate cuts.
Spot gold climbed 1.7% to $4,387.58 an ounce, while U.S. gold futures rose 1.3%. Analysts said renewed demand followed profit-taking late last year, supported by hopes of lower interest rates and improved physical demand in key markets such as India and China.
Gold finished 2025 up 64%, its best performance since 1979. Other metals also advanced, with silver rising 2.1%, platinum edging higher, and palladium gaining 2.4%, all building on strong gains from last year.
