Mar 21 • 04:25 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Why does gold suffer from war? The three weeks in which the refuge lost its shine

Gold prices have dropped by 13% since the onset of hostilities in Iran, primarily due to sell-offs by major investors and a stronger dollar.

This article explores the recent decline in gold prices amid ongoing conflicts in Iran, detailing how market dynamics have shifted dramatically in just three weeks. Historically, gold has been regarded as a safe haven during times of uncertainty, outpacing the value of oil for much of civilization's history. However, the onset of war often triggers significant sell-offs by large investors looking to mitigate their losses in stock markets, leading to a sharp decline in prices.

The piece highlights that, despite gold's legendary status as a store of value, factors such as the rising dollar and the increasing allure of U.S. treasury bonds have caused investors to pivot away from gold. This rapid transition illustrates how quickly market sentiment can turn, especially in response to geopolitical tensions that prompt investors to reassess their portfolios. The decline in gold's value may also reflect a broader trust in the stability and security of U.S. assets compared to traditional safe havens like gold.

Overall, the article suggests that this shift has not only impacted gold prices but may also have longer-term implications for how investors view the effectiveness of gold as a refuge during times of crisis. As the situation in Iran evolves, observers will be paying close attention to how these trends may reinvigorate or further harm gold's status in the financial markets, particularly if uncertainty continues to loom on the horizon.

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