Defensive Demand Lifts Metals as Oil Surges on US Sanctions

In London’s historic Hatton Garden, where diamonds have long been the star, gold is commanding more attention. The famed jewellery district is abuzz with customers seeking bullion bars and coins, broadening the investor pool for tangible assets. “There’s a mix of buying and selling gold, but buying is definitely stronger. Even though prices are high, people ...

Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is imposing further sanctions as a result of Russia’s lack of serious commitment to a peace process to end the war in Ukraine. Today’s actions increase pressure on Russia’s energy sector and degrade the Kremlin’s ability to raise revenue for its war machine and support its weakened economy. The United States will continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the war, and a permanent peace depends entirely on Russia’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. Treasury will continue to use its authorities in support of a peace process. “Now is the time to stop the killing and for an immediate ceasefire,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “Given President Putin’s refusal to end this senseless war, Treasury is sanctioning Russia’s two largest oil companies that fund the Kremlin’s war machine. Treasury is prepared to take further action if necessary to support President Trump’s effort to end yet another war. We encourage our allies to join us in and adhere to these sanctions.” Today’s action targets Russia’s two largest oil companies, Open Joint Stock Company Rosneft Oil Company (Rosneft) and Lukoil OAO (Lukoil), which are now designated. Rosneft is a vertically integrated energy company specializing in the exploration, extraction, production, refining, transport, and sale of petroleum, natural gas, and petroleum products. Lukoil engages in the exploration, production, refining, marketing, and distribution of oil and gas in Russia and internationally. The US targets Rosneft and Lukoil in the latest round of Russia sanctions. - US Treasury Statement The US is prepared to take further action if needed against Russia - US Treasury Statement. US Demands Moscow Agree To Immediate Ceasefire – Treasury Statement

Gold prices remain under pressure midweek following a heavy reversal lower yesterday. The recovery in USD and broader risk sentiment linked to softening US/China tensions has seen a heavy covering of long positions in gold futures. The squeeze has seen the market dropping around 8% in the last 24 hours. With USD poised to continue higher this week the ...