Global markets reacted to escalating geopolitical tensions on Thursday, February 26, 2026, with gold and oil prices surging amid concerns over potential disruptions to supply. The movements reflect a broader trend of investors seeking safe-haven assets and bracing for economic uncertainty.
Gold prices climbed 0.5% to $5188.63 per ounce in immediate transactions, reaching a more than three-week high, according to Al Jazeera. Futures contracts for April delivery, however, saw a 0.5% decrease to $5202.06 per ounce. The increase in gold’s value is attributed to a weakening dollar and heightened geopolitical uncertainty, particularly surrounding ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran.
Oil prices also rose sharply, approaching a seven-month peak as investors assessed the possibility of a military conflict that could interrupt supplies. Brent crude reached $71, as reported by Al Ain News. This upward momentum is driven by fears of supply shortages stemming from the tensions between Washington and Tehran and anticipation of the outcome of talks in Geneva.
The dollar, meanwhile, experienced a decline, further bolstering the appeal of gold as a safe-haven investment for holders of other currencies. According to Investing.com, the weakening dollar and increased geopolitical ambiguity are key factors driving the demand for gold.
Analysts point to renewed concerns regarding U.S. Trade policy, specifically modern tariffs, as contributing to the market’s volatility. Al Ain News reported that gold reached $5183.85 per ounce, benefiting from both the dollar’s decline and the increased demand for safe assets. The situation underscores the interconnectedness of global economic and political events, and the impact these events have on commodity markets.
Asian and European stock markets closed higher on Thursday, outperforming the United States, but concerns about new geopolitical tensions remain, as noted by firstonline.info.
