Gold price soars to new record as US Federal Reserve faces threats

WorldBusiness & Finance
12 Jan 2026 • 7:31 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Gold prices surged to a new record high of 4,600 US dollars per ounce, driven by investor concerns over threats to the independence of the US central bank.
  • The precious metal's value has increased by approximately 70% over the past year, reflecting a broader trend of investors seeking safe haven assets amidst economic and political uncertainty.
  • The latest rise followed US central bank chairman Jerome Powell's revelation of a criminal indictment threat regarding his testimony on Federal Reserve building renovations.
  • This threat is viewed as a significant escalation in criticism against the Federal Reserve, raising fears that monetary policy could be influenced by political pressure.
  • Market analysts expressed concern that this dispute represents a major crisis for markets, potentially reigniting worries about the US dollar and its monetary policy.