Gold prices jumped over 1% on Monday. Other valuable metals saw significant rises. This increase happened after the United States detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro over the weekend. The situation has heightened international tensions. This has resulted in an increased interest in secure investments like gold. Investors are closely monitoring the changing situation in Venezuela. As of 0119, spot gold saw a rise of 1.5%, hitting $4,395.35 per ounce, marking a high not observed in more than a week. Bullion hit an all-time high of $4,549.71 on December 26, 2025. Gold futures in the U.S. for February delivery rose by 1.8%, hitting a price of $4,405.40.
Bullion saw a significant increase in 2025, ending the year with a 64% rise, representing its largest annual growth since 1979. The increase was driven by lower interest rates, increased demand for safe-haven assets, and significant investments in exchange-traded funds. Investors expect at least two rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve this year. The U.S. apprehended Maduro on Saturday, in an operation that reportedly led to civilian casualties, while U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Washington would take control of the nation. Delcy Rodriguez has taken on the position of interim leader, backed by the highest court in Venezuela, claiming that Maduro remains in the presidency.
The operation marked Washington’s most controversial involvement in Latin America since the Panama invasion 37 years earlier. Non-yielding assets typically show strong performance in settings marked by low interest rates and times of geopolitical or economic instability. Spot silver rose by 4.5% to $75.86 per ounce, after reaching a high of $83.62 on December 29.
Silver wrapped up the year with an impressive increase of 147%, far outpacing gold, marking its best year ever. Silver has hit new highs as it is recognized as a vital U.S. mineral, alongside supply constraints amid rising industrial and investment demand. Spot platinum rose by 1.5% to $2,175.15 per ounce, after hitting a high of $2,478.50 last Monday. The asset saw a rise of over 5% earlier in the session, hitting a one-week high. Palladium rose by 0.4% to $1,645.0 per ounce.