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By Newz.Africa Business Desk | Johannesburg, South Africa | Published: 20 January 2026 | gold hits record $4750 per ounce
Gold hits record $4750 per ounce as investors seek safety
Gold prices climbed has hit a record $4750 per ounce today. Fresh tariff tensions increased fears of a slowdown in global trade. Markets reacted sharply to new policy threats by major economies, and investors moved money into safe assets.
Analysts said the surge reflected deep uncertainty. Several governments signalled that new trade measures were possible in the coming weeks. Traders responded by shifting into gold and reducing exposure to riskier sectors.
The price jump continued a broader trend. Gold has gained strongly over the past year. Central banks have increased their own holdings. Major funds have positioned for market volatility. The latest spike pushed prices to a level not seen before.
Tariff tensions put pressure on global markets
Banks reported heavy volumes in gold trades during the morning session. Currency markets also reflected the shift as the dollar weakened. Bond yields fell as investors moved capital into defensive assets.
Economists said a long period of unpredictable trade policy had made investors more sensitive to any new signals. Some warned that prolonged tensions limit growth in emerging markets. Others said the current spike ease if talks between major economies stabilise.
African exporters have also been watching the developments closely. Countries that rely on raw material shipments face higher risks if demand weakens. The gold price increase will offer short-term relief for mineral producers, but broader market uncertainty remains a concern.
Investors weigh inflation risk and supply constraints
Part of the rally has been driven by expectations of sticky inflation. Several large economies reported slower progress in bringing prices down. This kept interest rate projections uncertain. Gold is often used as a hedge when inflation expectations rise.
Supply constraints have also played a role. Many gold producers have faced higher extraction costs and delays in new projects. This limited the availability of new stock even as demand increased.
Market watchers are now looking to the next set of policy announcements. If tariff threats escalate, gold will move higher. If talks calm markets, prices will settle.
Original Reporting
What we confirmed:
Newz.Africa reviewed price data from commodities trackers.
Primary artefact:
Live commodities chart showing gold at $4750 per ounce at 12:10 SAST.
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