In 2017, investors added gold to their portfolios as incomes increased, uncertainty loomed, and gold’s positive price momentum continued, according to World Gold Council.
 
As 2018 begins, the council explores four key market trends and their implications for gold: 
 
1. Synchronised economic growth
2. Shrinking central bank balance sheets and rising rates
3. Frothy asset prices
4. Market transparency, efficiency, and access. 
 
The council believes that these trends will support demand and maintain gold’s relevance as a strategic asset.


(Calculations based on total return indices except for spot DXY, gold and silver. Source: Bloomberg, ICE Benchmark Administration, World Gold Council)