Gold prices moved higher on Friday, August 21, 2026, with spot gold trading at $4,594.98 per ounce. Gold gained $80.90, or 1.79%, from the previous close of $4,514.08 per ounce.
Gold market outlook
One year ago, gold was trading at $3,344.47 per ounce. That means gold is now 37.39% higher than it was one year ago. One week ago, gold was at $4,352.81 per ounce, meaning prices have risen 5.56% in one week, according to USA Today.
Gold does not pay dividends, CNBC reported. Gold has also seen a strong rise over the past year. Gold has also gained strongly in the shorter term. Gold can also perform well when stock markets and other financial assets come under pressure, making it attractive to investors looking for protection during market downturns. Several factors can influence gold prices every day. Despite its recent gains, gold also has some disadvantages compared with traditional investments. Investors can gain exposure to gold in different ways, including through investments linked to the metal, although each option comes with its own risks and costs.
Because changes in monetary policy can affect inflation expectations, interest rates and demand for gold, central bank decisions are also important for gold investors. Inflation expectations, central bank policies, global economic conditions and investor demand are among the key drivers, according to USA Today.
Gold was trading at $4,091.15 per ounce one month ago. This means gold has gained 12.32% in just one month. Gold’s 52-week low is $3,337.21 per ounce, while its 52-week high is $5,477.79 per ounce.
Compared with one month ago, gold has risen even more.
