Gold prices fell more than 2% to approximately $2,345 per ounce, reversing a five-week upward trend—the longest in over a year—as tensions in the Middle East began to subside. The decrease in geopolitical risk followed Iran's understated reaction to recent Israeli strikes, indicating a lower likelihood of immediate retaliation. This shift has reduced the market's risk premium, particularly as bullish sentiment on oil also receded on Monday, further reflecting easing tensions in the region. These developments come as traders eagerly anticipate upcoming U.S. economic data, which is expected to provide clearer insights into future monetary policy directions.

After a notably turbulent week in currency markets, the dollar experienced gains against the euro and yen, propelled by ongoing assessments of policy and geopolitical developments. As traders keep a close watch on the yen ahead of the Bank of Japan's policy review, the currency teeters near a 34-year low against the dollar, sparking speculation about potential intervention. Meanwhile, despite a recent retreat from five-month highs, the dollar's trade-weighted index remains above 106, influenced by Federal Reserve officials’ comments and recent inflation data, which have tempered expectations for imminent rate cuts.

Despite the challenges posed by a faltering economy and a depreciating yuan, Chinese consumers and the central bank are increasingly investing in gold, driving the price to record highs above $2,400 an ounce. The allure of gold, a traditional safe-haven asset, has intensified amid global economic and geopolitical instability. Additionally, anticipations of interest rate cuts by central banks, which tend to reduce yields on bonds, are making gold an even more attractive investment. The weakening yuan, which has dropped about 5% against the US dollar over the past year, further exacerbates the cost for Chinese buyers, yet does not deter their demand.

Copper prices are approaching a significant milestone of $10,000 per ton, reaching a new two-year high due to ongoing supply concerns and robust investor interest. The metal's price surge is supported by global manufacturing improvements in regions like the U.S. and China, despite potential setbacks from geopolitical tensions and uncertainties in monetary policy. Originally sparked by disruptions in major mining operations, the rally continues as the market anticipates a recovery in global manufacturing that could stabilize and further boost demand, especially with the seasonal recovery expected in China.