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Gold prices held firm in Asian trading on Wednesday, briefly climbing to record levels above $3,500 an ounce as ongoing concerns over global fiscal stability and U.S. trade tariffs kept investors drawn to safe-haven assets. Gains, however, were limited by a rebound in the U.S. dollar, which recovered much of this week’s earlier losses amid a global selloff in government bonds that directed flows back into U.S. markets.

Spot gold traded at $3,534.61 per ounce, while December gold futures rose 0.3% to $3,601.15/oz. Earlier in the session, spot gold touched an intraday record of $3,547.09/oz. Despite the dollar’s resurgence, precious metals have maintained strong momentum throughout the week.

The rally in gold was initially triggered by a U.S. appeals court ruling that struck down most of former President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs, which can only remain in place until mid-October. Trump has criticized the ruling and intends to appeal to the Supreme Court. Any further legal challenges to tariffs could compel Washington to renegotiate trade agreements, adding uncertainty to global commerce.

Rising global bond yields on Tuesday, driven by concerns over high debt in developed economies, contributed to risk-off sentiment, supporting gold. At the same time, a strengthening dollar tempered gold’s upside. Investors now await key U.S. nonfarm payrolls data for August, which will influence expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. CME FedWatch shows futures markets are pricing in over a 90% probability of a 25-basis-point rate cut later this month, a factor that has buoyed metals markets in recent weeks.

Other Precious Metals Pull Back

Following strong gains earlier, other precious metals retreated slightly. Spot platinum fell 0.6% to $1,402.46/oz, near a one-month high, while silver slipped 0.3% to $40.75/oz after reaching a 14-year peak.

Copper Supported by Hopes for Chinese Demand

Industrial metals also saw mixed moves. London copper futures dipped 0.2% to $9,978 per ton after briefly surpassing $10,000 a ton for the first time since March. COMEX copper declined 0.3% to $4.6285 per pound from a one-month high.

Copper’s earlier strength this week has been driven by optimism that demand from China, the world’s top copper importer, will pick up. Reports suggest Beijing is preparing additional stimulus measures. Purchasing Managers’ Index data for August indicated some resilience in China’s economy, although further policy support may be needed to sustain growth.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Oil prices remained largely steady in early Asian trading on Wednesday, holding near a one-month high following new U.S. sanctions targeting Iran’s oil sector, which raised concerns about tightening global supplies. Attention is now focused on the upcoming OPEC+ meeting, where the cartel is widely expected to maintain current production quotas after a series of increases earlier this year.

Brent crude futures were stable at $69.12 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures held at $65.09 per barrel. Both benchmarks surged to a one-month peak on Tuesday and remained close to those levels on Wednesday.

The U.S. Treasury recently imposed sanctions on a network of companies and vessels involved in transporting Iranian oil disguised as Iraqi crude, part of ongoing restrictions following stalled nuclear talks with Tehran. These measures are expected to tighten supply further in the coming months. Meanwhile, potential U.S.-India trade discussions are in focus, after Washington levied 50% tariffs on Indian purchases of Russian oil, and Saudi Arabia and Iraq reportedly halted shipments to an Indian refinery, raising further supply concerns.

Investors are also awaiting the OPEC+ meeting scheduled for 7 September for guidance on output levels. While production is expected to remain unchanged, the cartel may reconsider further supply increases, given generally weak prices this year. U.S. inventory reports from the American Petroleum Institute and the Energy Information Administration, due later this week, will provide additional insight into demand trends following the summer travel season.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

M&G Plc (LSE:MNG) saw its shares drop over 2% after reporting first-half profits below market expectations, even as assets under management (AuM) and capital levels exceeded forecasts. Total adjusted operating profit came in at £378 million, 5.1% below consensus of £398.4 million. Asset management profit was £128 million, 9.9% under estimates, while life profit reached £344 million, 2.2% short of forecasts. Corporate center costs were slightly better than expected at negative £94 million.

Assets under management and administration totaled £354.6 billion, 0.8% above consensus, with asset management AuMA at £168.8 billion, exceeding forecasts by 3%. Life AuMA, however, fell slightly short at £184.8 billion. Total net outflows were negative £2.5 billion, outperforming expectations of negative £3.1 billion, driven by strong asset management inflows of £2.6 billion, nearly four times the forecasted £0.7 billion, while life net outflows were deeper than expected at negative £5.1 billion.

The company’s Solvency II ratio increased to 230%, five percentage points above consensus, and total operating capital generation was £408 million, 4.3% above forecasts. M&G maintained an ordinary dividend of 6.7p per share. Analysts noted that, despite the profit shortfall, asset growth and net flows indicate the company is progressing toward its strategic objectives, with positive momentum in wholesale, institutional, and PruFund net flows.

About M&G Plc

M&G Plc is a UK-based asset manager and life insurer, providing investment solutions, savings, and retirement products. The firm operates across asset management, life insurance, and annuity services, focusing on long-term capital growth and financial stability for its clients.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Empire Metals Limited (LSE:EEE) has upgraded its trading status to the OTCQX Best Market, increasing visibility and accessibility for U.S. investors. This move is expected to enhance liquidity and broaden the investor base, enabling direct engagement with the company’s shares. The upgrade coincides with progress on the Pitfield Titanium Project, which remains a core focus due to its large-scale titanium deposits. Cross-trading on OTCQX provides U.S. investors with improved access, supporting growth and exposure to the titanium sector.

About Empire Metals Limited

Empire Metals is an AIM-listed and OTCQX-traded exploration and resource development company centered on the Pitfield Titanium Project in Western Australia. The company focuses on high-grade titanium discovery and development, with exploration targets at the Cosgrove and Thomas prospects. Empire Metals also maintains additional exploration projects in Australia and Austria.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Ondo InsurTech Plc (LSE:ONDO) has signed a two-year agreement with Admiral, a leading UK home insurer, to deploy an additional 10,000 LeakBot devices in 2025. The expanded deployment aims to reduce water damage risks and enhance customer service for Admiral policyholders, reinforcing Ondo’s position as a key provider of claims prevention technology.

While the company shows strong revenue growth, challenges remain in profitability and financial stability. Technical indicators suggest some positive momentum, but valuation is pressured by a negative P/E ratio and the absence of dividends. Limited earnings call data and corporate events mean these factors currently have little influence on the outlook.

About Ondo InsurTech Plc

Ondo InsurTech specializes in claims prevention technology for home insurers, with a focus on global expansion of its LeakBot system. The device detects leaks and notifies users via an app, helping prevent water damage—the leading cause of home insurance claims. Ondo partners with 25 insurers across Europe and the USA and holds the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Premier African Minerals Limited (LSE:PREM) has announced the appointment of Graham Hill as an executive director, following his previous role as Managing Director. Hill succeeds George Roach, who has resigned from the board. With over 41 years of experience in mine development and management, Hill is expected to strengthen the company’s operational capabilities and strategic direction.

About Premier African Minerals Limited

Premier African Minerals is a multi-commodity mining and natural resource company focused on Southern Africa. Its portfolio includes projects in Zimbabwe and Mozambique, covering tungsten, rare earth elements, lithium, tantalum, and gold. The company’s assets comprise both brownfield projects with near-term production potential and grass-roots exploration opportunities.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Watches of Switzerland Group PLC (LSE:WOSG) delivered robust results for the 18 weeks ending 31 August 2025, with growth across both the UK and US markets despite higher US tariffs on Swiss imports. The company highlighted the success of its flagship Rolex Boutique in London and expanding ecommerce sales, particularly in the US. Its acquisition of Roberto Coin Inc. has been fruitful, supported by new marketing campaigns and showroom expansions. The group continues to invest in showroom development, with several new openings and refurbishments planned, and expects no material impact from US tariffs in the first half of FY26.

Financially, the company benefits from strong performance and strategic initiatives, though technical indicators suggest bearish momentum. The absence of a dividend yield may concern some investors, but share repurchases and executive incentive programs support confidence in long-term prospects.

About Watches of Switzerland Group PLC

Watches of Switzerland Group is the UK’s largest luxury watch retailer, with operations across the UK and US. Its portfolio includes seven prominent brands, such as Watches of Switzerland, Mappin & Webb, Goldsmiths, and Mayors. The company also offers complementary jewellery collections and holds exclusive distribution rights for Roberto Coin in North America and the Caribbean. As of September 2025, the group operates 195 showrooms, including 84 mono-brand boutiques, and maintains a significant presence in Heathrow Airport.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Ecora Resources PLC (LSE:ECOR) reported an 81% increase in contributions from its base metals portfolio during the first half of 2025, driven by strong performance at Voisey’s Bay and Mantos Blancos, alongside the acquisition of a copper stream at Mimbula. While total portfolio contributions were affected by timing differences at Kestrel, the company is focused on deleveraging and expanding its critical minerals holdings. The planned sale of the Dugbe gold royalty for up to $20 million will support debt reduction and provide flexibility for future acquisitions. Ecora’s shift toward a revenue model centered on critical minerals, particularly copper, is expected to strengthen its market position and deliver long-term stakeholder value.

The company’s outlook is supported by strong technical momentum and positive strategic developments, although financial challenges—including revenue pressures and negative valuation metrics—remain. Ecora’s emphasis on base metals growth and maintaining a solid balance sheet provides a constructive long-term perspective.

About Ecora Resources PLC

Ecora Resources operates in the mining sector, specializing in critical minerals, base metals, and specialty metals. Its portfolio includes royalty and metal stream agreements, with a strong focus on copper, cobalt, vanadium, and uranium. The company aims to expand its critical minerals holdings, with copper as a core strategic element.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Cirata plc (LSE:CRTA) has released its interim results for the first half of 2025, reporting notable growth in both revenue and bookings. The company is strategically shifting its focus toward its Data Integration (DI) business following the August 2025 divestiture of its DevOps assets. This move is designed to capitalize on the DI segment’s strong year-over-year growth, streamline operations, and enhance long-term profitability. Cirata has also implemented cash overhead reductions and appointed a new Chief Revenue Officer to reinforce market expansion.

While the company faces financial challenges, including historical negative cash flows, recent corporate actions—such as strategic divestitures and new contracts—signal potential for future growth. Technical indicators currently suggest bearish momentum, and valuation metrics remain under pressure due to ongoing losses.

About Cirata plc

Cirata operates in the technology sector, specializing in data integration and orchestration solutions. Its offerings, including the Live Data Migrator (LDM) and enterprise data orchestration platforms, enable secure, efficient migration and management of large-scale data across cloud environments, addressing critical challenges in data modernization and interoperability.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Ashtead Group PLC (LSE:AHT) posted a 2% increase in group rental revenue for the first quarter of 2025, with total revenue reaching $2.801 billion. While operating profit and adjusted EPS saw slight declines, the company generated near-record free cash flow and completed significant share repurchases. The North American Specialty division delivered robust growth, and the UK segment benefited from favorable currency movements. Ashtead reaffirmed its full-year revenue and capital expenditure guidance, raising free cash flow expectations amid ongoing structural industry tailwinds and a continued focus on safety and operational efficiency.

The company’s outlook is supported by solid financial performance and positive guidance, although some challenges remain in revenue growth and leverage. Technical indicators show bullish momentum tempered by overbought signals, while valuation metrics remain reasonable with a moderate P/E ratio and dividend yield.

About Ashtead Group PLC

Ashtead Group operates in the equipment rental sector, providing construction and industrial equipment rental services. The company focuses on the North American and UK markets, with a strategic emphasis on growing its specialty business segments.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.