Gold Rises on Chinese Trading With US-Iran Tensions in Focus

Gold prices edged higher in February 2026 amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty, driven by rising Chinese demand and escalating US-Iran tensions over nuclear negotiations. The precious metal gained traction as traders sought safe-haven assets, with China’s increased gold purchases adding upward pressure amid broader economic instability. US-Iran nuclear talks were extended without resolution, prolonging market anxiety and reinforcing gold’s appeal as a hedge against geopolitical risks. Analysts noted gold’s resilience despite fluctuating equities, attributing its strength to persistent demand from central banks and institutional investors. The trend reflects broader market caution, with gold’s performance closely tied to ongoing diplomatic standoffs and China’s strategic commodity stockpiling.