Gold and Silver Industry & Investing News

China’s exports of two key minerals—antimony and germanium—have plummeted in recent months amid tighter export controls and a government crackdown on smuggling. June shipments dropped over 88% compared to January. While rare earth exports have rebounded thanks to a U.S.-China deal, supplies of antimony and germanium—used in electronics, solar cells, and military tech—remain near record lows, pushing prices sharply higher.

As gold prices hit record highs, Russia’s precious metals exports to China nearly doubled, reaching $1 billion in the first half of the year. With Western markets largely closed to Russian bullion since 2022, China has emerged as a crucial trading partner. This shift underscores a broader realignment in global trade, where rising geopolitical tensions and central bank buying are fueling gold’s 28% price surge. Russia’s retail demand for gold is also booming, while major producers like MMC Norilsk Nickel are capitalizing on strong Chinese demand for palladium and platinum—both up sharply this year.

Gold prices rose on renewed optimism around U.S. interest-rate cuts and growing uncertainty over global trade policies. Comments from Fed officials show a split on how tariffs may influence inflation, but some—including Governor Waller—support lowering rates, which typically favors gold since it doesn’t offer yield. The metal has already surged 27% this year as investors seek safe-haven assets amid economic and geopolitical tension. Meanwhile, traders are closely watching upcoming tariff decisions, Trump’s pressure on Fed Chair Powell, and how global partners may respond. Silver, platinum, and palladium also climbed alongside gold.

Silver extended its rally Monday, nearing $38.50 per ounce, as the U.S. dollar and bond yields declined. The move reflects growing expectations that the Federal Reserve may begin cutting interest rates as soon as July. Fed Governor Christopher Waller pointed to a softening labor market and minimal inflation pressures, signaling room for monetary easing. He also dismissed concerns that tariffs would fuel long-term inflation. Meanwhile, in China, the government’s new industrial action plan—aimed at modernizing sectors like machinery, autos, and electrical equipment—is expected to further lift demand for metals like silver. The initiative spans 10 major industries, supporting broader momentum...

Gold eased lower on Tuesday, slipping 0.5% to $3,328/oz, as traders held back ahead of potential new U.S. tariff decisions. While inflation data showed consumer prices rose in line with expectations, the dollar gained strength, applying additional pressure on gold. Experts suggest that while fundamentals remain bullish—especially with potential Fed rate cuts on the horizon—gold needs a new catalyst to break past $3,400. Investors are now eyeing the Producer Price Index report for further direction. Meanwhile, silver retreated slightly after reaching a multi-year high, with analysts calling any dip a likely buying opportunity.

According to the latest Atlas Pulse Gold Report, inflation may be the “new elephant in the room” for markets—and it’s setting the stage for a renewed gold rush. Although gold is still consolidating after its April peak, silver, platinum group metals, and gold miners are showing strong signs of life. Importantly, gold isn’t just rising against a weakening U.S. dollar—it’s climbing in nearly every major currency, underscoring a global shift. With the dollar still considered expensive despite a 10% decline this year, a deeper drop could send precious metals sharply higher.

High-stakes trade talks between the European Union and the United States are entering a critical phase, with a looming Aug. 1 deadline set by President Trump, who’s threatening to impose a 30% tariff on most EU exports. Despite ongoing negotiations and some hopes for compromise, no decisive breakthrough has been reached. Brussels is preparing countermeasures in case of a no-deal outcome, even signaling willingness to accept an imbalanced deal to avert a tariff wave. The proposed U.S. levies could hit cars, steel, aluminum, and even pharmaceuticals—impacting roughly 70% of EU exports to the U.S. Business leaders are warning that prolonged...