Gold prices moved sharply higher as escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East spurred safe-haven demand for the precious metal. [1, 2, 4, 6] The increased uncertainty has prompted investors to seek refuge in assets like gold, which is traditionally seen as a store of value during times of global instability. This flight to safety was the primary driver of the price increase, with rising oil prices linked to the tensions also contributing to broader inflation concerns, further enhancing gold's appeal as an inflation hedge. [1, 8]