Gold jumps to record $5,600 an ounce as investors seek safe haven from global turmoil

The explosive upward trend shows no signs of stopping, as the precious metal touched a new all-time high just under $5,600 per ounce, with investors seeking safe havens amid geopolitical and economic instability. Simultaneously, silver came within a breath of the $120 milestone. Spot gold jumped 2.6% to $5,538.69 per ounce after hitting an intraday record of $5,591.61. According to Marex analyst Edward Meir, "Rising US debt and the fragmentation of the global trade system into regional blocs, rather than a US-centric model, are driving investors to hoard gold."

Gains exceed 10% in a single week

The precious metal surpassed the $5,000 level for the first time on Monday and has recorded an increase of over 10% this week alone. This movement is attributed to a combination of factors, including intense safe-haven demand, steady central bank purchases, and a weakening dollar. As analysts at OCBC note, "Gold is no longer seen merely as a hedge against crises or inflation; it is increasingly viewed as a neutral store of value offering diversification across a broad range of macroeconomic conditions." Gold has added $1,000 in January 2026 alone, following a 64% jump in 2025. While IG market analyst Tony Sycamore points out that "the parabolic nature of the rise suggests a correction is near," fundamentals are expected to remain supportive throughout 2026, making any pullbacks attractive buying opportunities.

Growing uncertainties

On the geopolitical front, US President Donald Trump has called for Iran to negotiate a nuclear weapons deal, warning that any future US strike would be far more severe than last year’s attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities. Tehran responded with threats of retaliation against the US, Israel, and their supporters. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged, as expected. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated that December inflation was likely still well above the central bank’s 2% target. On Thursday, gold was further bolstered by reports of crypto groups planning to allocate 10%–15% of their portfolios to physical gold. At the same time, record prices have driven consumers to gold shops in Shanghai and Hong Kong, with many betting on further gains.

Gold at $27,000: Save what you can

The global gold market is entering a historic turning point that many characterize as a harbinger of deep monetary and geopolitical upheaval. For the first time, the price has breached the psychological barrier of $5,000 per ounce, sending signals of panic and a flight to safety across international markets. On Monday, January 26, February futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange soared above $5,100, marking a milestone that can no longer be attributed to mere speculation. Instead, it indicates structural cracks in the global financial system. In just twelve months, gold has risen 84%, an extraordinary performance reflecting a massive reallocation of capital as investors abandon traditional assets for hard value. This "explosion" is not limited to gold; silver recorded a 255% annual increase, reaching an all-time high of $100 per ounce, while platinum is also trending sharply upward.

The dollar in the crosshairs

At the heart of this reversal lies a collapse of confidence in dollar-denominated assets. Geopolitical tensions have reached levels not seen in decades, involving conflicts of interest between the US and NATO allies, trade wars, and threats of new tariffs. Particular concern is growing regarding the independence of the US Federal Reserve. Any hint of political interference undermines the dollar's role as the global reserve currency and accelerates the flight to alternative havens. Prolonged loose monetary policy and mass money printing have flooded the system with liquidity, much of which is now flowing into real assets. Central banks are also playing a decisive role, systematically increasing physical gold reserves while reducing dollar exposure—a strategic shift signaling preparation for a more volatile international monetary environment.

From $7,000 to $27,000: The shocking Kiyosaki scenario

Major banks are appearing particularly bullish. Goldman Sachs revised its December 2026 forecast to $5,400 per ounce, while a London Bullion Market Association survey places the price as high as $7,150. However, the most explosive scenario comes from Robert Kiyosaki, author of "Rich Dad Poor Dad," who predicts gold could reach $27,000 per ounce.

GOLD soars over $5000.

Yay!!!!

Future for gold $27,000.

— Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) January 26, 2026

He links this prospect to an inevitable flood of money from the Fed and a deep crisis of confidence in the dollar. Kiyosaki had previously predicted a rise to $5,000 back in 2023—a forecast that has now been realized. A resonant warning of an upcoming "Apocalypse Crash" is also issued by "Mr. Gold," Bill Holter, who argues that the global economy is at a dangerous tipping point with debt levels at historic highs.

Holter emphasizes that salvation lies not with central banks or governments, but exclusively in gold and silver, the only "currencies" that cannot go bankrupt. He warns that consecutive all-time highs are a signal of major trouble ahead. As he explains: "There is a massive breakdown. The metals market perceives risk and fear. Trillions of dollars were funded by borrowing in yen; now, the Japanese yield curve has risen, and the carry trade is under pressure. The gold market sees the collapse of the Japanese carry trade. If we look at interest rates worldwide, they are actually moving upward." If the Fed cuts rates later this month, it may not be good news; the bond market could react negatively, causing bond prices to fall and yields to rise. Holter describes the global economy as an over-leveraged house of cards, fueled by the fear of systemic default.

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