XAUUSD surges as geopolitical risks escalate, USD weakens

Gold prices (XAUUSD) have surged 1.5% to $1,985 per ounce amid heightened geopolitical tensions and a broadly weaker US dollar. The escalating conflict in the Middle East has driven safe-haven demand for the precious metal. Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index (DXY) has slipped 0.4% to 102.50, further supporting gold's rally. The recent string of mixed US economic data, including softer retail sales and industrial production figures, has raised doubts about the strength of the US economy, weighing on the dollar. Technical analysis shows gold breaking above key resistance at $1,975, with the next major hurdle at the psychological $2,000 level. However, overbought conditions on the daily RSI suggest a potential pullback in the near term. Traders should monitor geopolitical developments and USD dynamics closely.