Gold ($XAU ) is once again in the spotlight, climbing above $5,000 per ounce as safe-haven demand surges amid geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and portfolios shifting away from risk assets like Bitcoin. Strong investor flows and ongoing central bank purchases have kept bullion near elevated levels, while markets now brace for key policy signals that could extend the rally. Price action remains volatile — dipping below and rebounding above major psychological marks — underscoring both bullish momentum and pullback risk in the current macro backdrop. With traders watching global developments and central bank cues closely, gold’s hedge appeal in 2026 looks reinforced.