Gold prices surged to over a two-month high on Tuesday as the US dollar weakened, with the precious metal also supported by buying amid uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's trade policies, reports Reuters.
Spot gold climbed 0.4 per cent to $2,719.52 per ounce by 1059 GMT, reaching its highest level since Nov. 6 and nearing the all-time high of $2,790.15 set in October.
The dollar index slipped 0.6 per cent versus major peers, holding close to a 2-week low hit in the previous session, making bullion more attractive for other currency holders.
US gold futures were 0.6 per cent lower at $2,732.60, narrowing the premium over spot rates, after US President Trump did not immediately impose tariffs after his inauguration on Monday as expected.
However, Trump suggested the US could impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico in the near future.
The market is likely to benefit from the uncertainty of "Trump swings", and gold could reach $3,000 per ounce by mid-year, said Julia Khandoshko, CEO at broker Mind Money.
Bullion is considered a safe investment during economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
"The markets remain firmly in risk-off mode so I would expect any gold price dips to catch bids," said StoneX analyst Rhona O'Connell.
However, Trump's policies are seen as inflationary, which could push the US central bank to maintain interest rates higher for longer. This could pressure gold as it yields no interest.
Spot silver fell 0.2 per cent to $30.44 per ounce.
Palladium dropped 1.4 per cent to $931.39 and platinum shed 0.8 per cent to $934.95. Both metals are used by automakers in engine exhausts to reduce emissions.
