Silver Set for First Weekly Gain in Four
Silver held above $78 per ounce on Friday, on track for its first weekly gain in four, supported by rising geopolitical tensions and thin trading volumes in Asia. Escalating US-Iran tensions intensified after President Donald Trump warned Tehran to reach an agreement on its nuclear program or face consequences, while Iran signaled potential retaliation against US bases if attacked. Commodity trading volumes remained subdued this week as major Asian markets, notably China, were closed for the Lunar New Year holidays. Silver and other precious metals had previously underwent a blowoff rally and a historic selloff due in large part to speculative activity among Chinese traders. Meanwhile, market participants awaited key US economic releases that could influence Federal Reserve policy. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting revealed policymakers were split on the rate outlook, with some signaling further hikes could be warranted if inflation remains elevated.