Story perspectives

Middle East Turmoil Fuels Demand for Safe-Haven Assets

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Turmoil in the Middle East has pushed investors toward safe havens, making traditional assets volatile.
The U.S. dollar has gained 1.5% this week.
Gold remains strong despite volatility.
Analysts say gold is under-owned in portfolios, with allocations below the recommended range.
Yields on German Bunds have risen due to inflation concerns.

History

Historical Context

The Gold Standard Act of 1900, signed by President William McKinley, established gold as the sole standard for U.S. currency, fixing the dollar's value at approximately $20.67 per ounce. This act followed earlier monetary shifts, including the Coinage Act of 1873, which demonetized silver. The gold standard's volatility has historically driven investors to seek gold during economic uncertainty, a trend that continues today amid global instability.

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Story summary

Turmoil in the Middle East has pushed investors toward safe havens, making traditional assets volatile.
The U.S. dollar has gained 1.5% this week.
Gold remains strong despite volatility.
Analysts say gold is under-owned in portfolios, with allocations below the recommended range.
Yields on German Bunds have risen due to inflation concerns.

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