Gold erased its 2026 gains, falling for a ninth session as Middle East tensions
lifted inflation risks and rate expectations. Bullion dropped nearly 5% below
$4,300, its worst weekly loss since 1983, pressured by reduced prospects for Fed
easing and forced selling. Markets remained volatile, with crude elevated and
equities choppy. Analysts said the rapid selloff mirrors past shocks, often
followed by rallies. Despite oversold signals, hedge funds raised net-long
positions. Spot gold fell 4.8% to $4,275.56 in Singapore.
