Gold has plummeted into a bear market, shedding over 22% from its January record highs, as soaring oil prices tied to the escalating U.S.-Iran conflict trigger fears of persistent inflation and an increasingly hawkish Federal Reserve.
The Safe-Haven Paradox
The precious metal hit an all-time high of $5,589 per ounce in January. However, at the last check, gold was trading at $4,357.29, down 22.12% from the record, marking a historic sell-off.
Independent researcher at Ash & Seed Press, Shanaka Anslem Perera, noted the paradox: the war caused oil to spike above $112, which fanned inflation. Brent crude futures currently remain elevated near $107.86, while WTI sits at $98.81.
Fed Holds Steady Amid Oil Shock
Responding to the persistence of inflation, the Federal Open Market Committee maintained …


