Gold Demand Hits Highest Q1 Since 2016 as Asia Leads ETF Investment Surge

Gold Demand Hits Highest Q1 Since 2016 as Asia Leads ETF Investment Surge

Gold investment demand jumped 170% in Q1 2025 — the highest since early 2022 — driven by record ETF inflows, rising economic uncertainty, and strong buying in Asia.

IMF downgrades U.S. outlook amid tariff uncertainty

IMF downgrades U.S. outlook amid tariff uncertainty

IMF issued its steepest downgrade for the U.S. among advanced economies, citing rising tariff-related uncertainty and a heightened risk of recession. Global economic sentiment has dimmed, with the IMF now projecting a 37% chance of a U.S. downturn—up sharply from 25% just months ago.

Here are the countries holding the most U.S. debt- explained in 2 charts

Here are the countries holding the most U.S. debt- explained in 2 charts

Foreign investors held $8.8 trillion in U.S. Treasuries as of February 2025—a 10.2% increase from a year earlier, according to the recent U.S. Treasury data. Japan, China, and the U.K. remain the top holders of U.S. debt. Two charts show the major foreign holders as the national debt hits $36.1 trillion.

Even with a 90-day pause, Trump’s tariffs are already hitting Asia. Two charts show the impact.

Even with a 90-day pause, Trump’s tariffs are already hitting Asia. Two charts show the impact.

President Trump’s new tariffs hit Asian exporters the hardest. With a 90-day pause in place, countries like Vietnam and Cambodia seek trade solutions amid rising U.S. trade deficits.