Gold prices are soaring, recently hitting a record high of $3,357.40 per ounce, driven by fears of weaker economic growth, rising inflation, and strong central bank demand. Analysts at Goldman Sachs and other major banks have raised their year-end forecasts, with some predicting prices could reach up to $4,500 if a U.S. recession occurs. The surge reflects gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset amid escalating tariffs, stock market volatility, and geopolitical uncertainty.