Gold prices edge higher amid weaker dollar and Iran talks

Gold prices moved higher on Thursday as a softening dollar and geopolitical uncertainties supported safe-haven demand. Spot gold rose 0.3% to $5,184.43 per ounce by 0110 GMT, following a three-week high reached earlier in the week. Meanwhile, U.S. gold futures for April delivery saw a slight decline of 0.5%, trading at $5,199.20.

The decline in the dollar was partly attributed to strong corporate performance from NVIDIA Corporation[Symbol:{\"assets\":{\"symbol\":\"NVDA\"}}], which improved broader investor sentiment. Additionally, markets are closely watching the United States[Country:{\"assets\":{\"country\":\"US\"}}] regarding its trade agenda. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer noted that tariff rates for certain trading partners could rise to 15% or more, up from the current 10%, though specific details remain undisclosed.

Geopolitical tensions are also a primary focus for investors. Representatives from the United States and Iran[Country:{\"assets\":{\"country\":\"IR\"}}] are meeting in Geneva on Thursday for talks aimed at resolving nuclear disputes and preventing further military action. Such uncertainties typically bolster the appeal of gold as a protective asset.

Regarding monetary policy, market participants are anticipating three 25-basis-point interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve during 2026. Upcoming weekly jobless claims data will be scrutinized for further signals on the economic trajectory. In other markets, spot silver rose 0.1% to $89.49, while platinum and palladium also posted gains. Economic data expected later today includes the revised leading indicator from Japan[Country:{\"assets\":{\"country\":\"JP\"}}] and final consumer confidence figures from the European Union.