Gold prices have skyrocketed recently, with investors flocking to the precious metal amid rising global political tensions. On Monday, prices surged past the $5,000 per ounce mark, briefly reaching $5,500 before receding slightly. Silver has also seen a dramatic increase, currently trading around $98 per ounce compared to only $35 a year ago.

Three main factors are driving the rise in gold prices:
1. **Political Uncertainty**: Tariffs imposed by President Trump on various countries have unsettled global trade, raising investors' fears and driving them towards gold as a safe haven.
2. **Central Bank Purchases**: Many central banks are buying gold to insulate themselves from US policy, based on the perception that gold is a safer reserve compared to the dollar, particularly after recent geopolitical conflicts.
3. **Ongoing Wars**: Renewed conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, along with shifts in political relationships, have heightened global instability, making gold more appealing.

Despite this surge, recent developments suggest a softening in demand. Reports indicate that Trump's potential nomination of a more stable Federal Reserve chair has eased some pressures on gold prices. Consequently, while gold remains highly sought after, prices showed volatility, even dipping below $5,000 temporarily.

Ultimately, factors like trade uncertainties, conflicts, and central bank dynamics will continue to impact the gold market. Investors are asked to stay alert, leveraging gold’s traditional position as a safe investment during tumultuous times.