ETO Markets Global Pulse: Gold Jumps 7.6% in February, Hits 5373 on Middle East Shock

Market Review

According to ETO Markets monitoring, last Friday spot gold closed at USD 5,230.56/oz, reaching a near one-month high. February gains totaled 7.6%, marking the seventh consecutive monthly advance and reinforcing the prevailing uptrend structure.

During Asian trading on March 1 (Monday), spot gold gapped higher and extended gains by as much as 1.5%, touching USD 5,373.49/oz, the highest level in nearly a month, as safe-haven demand intensified.

Global Headlines

U.S.–Israel Strike on Iran Escalates Regional Risk

Over the weekend, U.S. and Israeli forces launched large-scale strikes on Iran, prompting missile retaliation from Tehran. Tensions escalated sharply, with the Strait of Hormuz facing potential disruption. Roughly 20% of global oil transport could be affected. Several major energy firms suspended shipments through the strait, and analysts warned that a sustained blockade could push oil risk premia up by as much as 50%.

Reports Claim Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed in Attack

On March 1, reports emerged that Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an attack. The development is viewed as a major geopolitical inflection point that could reshape the political and security architecture of the Middle East.

Trump Signals Military Action May Last Four Weeks

Former President Trump stated that military operations against Iran could extend for approximately four weeks and acknowledged U.S. casualties. His remarks suggest a prolonged timeline for conflict, keeping regional uncertainty elevated.

Expert: Bear Market Risk Hinges on Scope and Duration

Tian Lihui, Dean of the Institute of Financial Development at Nankai University, noted that escalation in the Middle East transmits to global markets through three channels: risk-premium repricing, energy cost shocks, and tighter monetary policy constraints.

Whether the situation evolves into a global bear market depends largely on the scope and duration of the conflict. At present, he characterized the impact as more structural than systemic, with markets likely entering a phase of heightened volatility and dispersion.

ETO Markets Analyst View (Spot Gold)

Technically, USD 5,275 serves as the immediate pivot. Sustained trading above this level could open room toward USD 5,400 and USD 5,450. A break below USD 5,275 would shift focus to support around USD 5,215 and USD 5,170.

RSI is trending higher, indicating strengthening momentum, with bulls maintaining near-term control.

Overall, amid escalating geopolitical conflict and spillover energy risks, golds safe-haven premium has expanded rapidly, accelerating price momentum. Volatility is likely to remain elevated. Investors should manage position sizing and carefully assess trading rhythm and risk exposure.

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