Gold hits a 28-year peak, silver rallies to an eight-month high

30 Oct 2007

Spot gold hit a high of $794.40 an ounce, its highest level since January 1980, which was also driven by expectations the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this week. Gold was last quoted at $783.80/784.30 in New York on Friday.

Silver rallied to its best level in eight months and palladium hit a two-week high. Physical trade came to a standstill as jewellery makers watched gold prices gyrate.

Gold has risen more than 20 per cent this year as record-high oil prices elevate its role as a hedge against inflation and a struggling dollar lifts its appeal as an alternative investment.

A lower dollar makes gold, which is denominated in US dollars, cheaper for holder of other currencies.