Global gold markets have witnessed an unprecedented surge, with the price of a single ounce surpassing the $5,000 mark for the first time in history. This record-breaking increase comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty worldwide. While international financial institutions had projected that gold prices might reach such heights by mid-2026, the sharp rise occurring at the start of the year has surprised many economists.
In 2025, the global price of gold rose by nearly 70 per cent, a trend that has not only persisted but accelerated in the early weeks of 2026. Analysts attribute this surge to a convergence of destabilising factors: policy uncertainty in the United States, ongoing geopolitical conflicts, and widespread volatility across global financial markets.
Several specific developments have shaken investor confidence. Tensions between the United States and NATO over Greenland, the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, and political instability across parts of Latin America have collectively heightened market anxiety. Additionally, the US administration’s stringent trade policies—including threats of up to 100 per cent tariffs if China signs new trade agreements, particularly with Canada—have exacerbated uncertainty.
In such a climate, investors typically move away from risky assets such as equities and flock to safe-haven investments like gold and other precious metals. This pattern has extended beyond gold; silver has also seen historic gains, exceeding $100 per ounce for the first time.
Other factors contributing to gold’s attractiveness include persistent inflation, a relatively weak US dollar, and significant gold purchases by central banks. Speculation that the US Federal Reserve may lower interest rates again has further strengthened investor demand for the metal.
Global Gold Statistics
| Category | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Total gold mined in human history | 216,265 tonnes |
| Gold mined since 1950 | Significant portion |
| Estimated remaining underground gold | Approx. 64,000 tonnes |
Gold Prices in Bangladesh (per bhori)
| Purity / Type | Price (BDT) |
|---|---|
| 22-carat | 257,191 |
| 21-carat | 245,527 |
| 18-carat | 210,419 |
| Traditional method | 172,919 |
Market analysts remain optimistic that if global uncertainty persists at current levels, gold prices are likely to continue their upward trajectory in the coming months. This trend reinforces gold’s role as a reliable haven during periods of economic crisis, offering investors a safe and tangible store of value.