Spot gold rises nearly 1% to $4,052.16 per ounce

gold: Gold is a precious metal and globally traded store of value that often attracts demand during geopolitical, currency, and financial-market uncertainty. The reported rise toward $4,052.16 per ounce follows recent volatility, with safe-haven demand and central-bank buying supporting prices while elevated interest-rate expectations and stronger energy costs have created headwinds. Central_banks: Central-bank gold purchases remain a significant source of structural support for the market in 2026. Interest_rates: Higher yields and expectations for tighter Federal Reserve policy can pressure gold because the metal does not generate income. Safe_haven_demand: Geopolitical tensions, equity-market stress, and fiscal uncertainty have continued to support demand for gold as a defensive asset.