KUALA LUMPUR: Gold prices are anticipated to range between US$2,700 and US$2,800 by the end of the year, driven by external factors such as geopolitical developments and policy directions under US president-elect Donald Trump.
Amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties, industry experts advise Malaysians to include gold in a diversified investment portfolio as a hedge against inflation.
Habib Group executive chairman Datuk Seri Meer Habib observed that while gold prices have been "extremely volatile" in November, particularly following the US presidential election, the underlying demand for gold remains robust.
He said that this confidence stems from gold's reliability as a hedge against inflation and the prevailing geopolitical tensions.
Although this month has seen significant volatility, the company is closely monitoring price movements, he added.
"We expect gold prices to go up in the coming months, although we still have to monitor the situation until Trump takes over and starts implementing his policies. For year-end projection, we are looking at a range of US$2,700 to US$2,800," he told Business Times.
In Malaysia, Meer Habib said consumers are buying gold both as adornment as well as an investment.
He said this factor has been a focus for Habib to come up with designs that appeal to its customers so that they enjoy wearing the pieces as well.
"As the festive season is approaching, we see a lot more interest in gold. Besides buying, some also opt to sell their gold, where we see more transactions at Ar Rahnu Express," he added.
Gold prices fluctuated on Monday when they ticked higher, nearing a three-week high buoyed by a weaker US dollar and safe-haven demand as geopolitical tensions flared.
It then plunged over three per cent following reports of Israel nearing a ceasefire with Hezbollah, coupled with Trump's nomination of Scott Bessent as the US Treasury Secretary, dampening the precious metal's safe-haven appeal. Spot gold fell 3.4 per cent to US$2,619.66 on Monday.
On Tuesday morning, prices held steady at US$2,625.48 per ounce, supported by increased safe-haven demand after Trump pledged to impose tariffs on all imports from Canada, Mexico, and China.
Malaysia Gold Association president Datuk Louis Ng said the recent surge in gold prices has led to a growing preference for smaller gold denominations for affordability, rising interest in gold bullion and digital gold platforms for investment, and sustained demand for 916 gold jewellery, which balances value with cultural significance.
Ng said this prompted Malaysian jewellery retailers to focus on lighter, more affordable pieces as demand for heavier items declines, while goldsmiths innovate with intricate, lightweight designs to manage rising material costs.
"Bullion traders are experiencing increased demand as consumers and investors turn to gold as a secure asset. Despite these challenges, Malaysia continues to excel as a leading gold jewellery exporter, with industry players adapting effectively to maintain quality and competitiveness," he said.
Ng also projected gold prices to remain strong in the coming months due to ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, including the Russia-Ukraine war, seasonal demand from major gold-consuming nations, and central banks' efforts to diversify their reserves with gold.
"Malaysians are encouraged to include gold in a diversified portfolio as a hedge against inflation, consider regular savings plans to mitigate price volatility, and take advantage of price dips for purchases. Gold is both a reliable investment and a means to preserve wealth in uncertain times," he said.