Global markets traded cautiously on Thursday as investors shifted toward defensive assets amid renewed geopolitical tensions. Gold softened slightly but stayed supported by risk-off flows, while silver advanced above $48.50 as investors sought portfolio protection. Oil prices jumped beyond $60.00 after the US imposed sanctions on Russian energy companies, raising concerns over potential supply disruptions. Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index hovered near 99.00 as optimism surrounding a possible US–China trade deal underpinned broader market sentiment. Gold prices slipped modestly below $4,250 as traders booked profits ... (full story)