Platinum Soars to 18-Year High

2025-12-17 05:58 By Jam Kaimo Samonte 1 min. read

Platinum rallied above $1,930 per ounce, reaching its highest levels since 2008 as rising economic and policy uncertainty in the US drove investors toward alternative assets offering higher returns and diversification.

The delayed November US labor report showed the unemployment rate increased to 4.6%, the highest since 2021, even as payrolls rose more than expected.

Markets are pricing in roughly a 75% probability that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates unchanged at its January meeting, little changed from before the data release.

Platinum prices have also been supported by supply-side concerns, with several mines in South Africa, the world’s largest producer, reporting weaker-than-expected output.

The World Platinum Investment Council forecasts a 2025 supply deficit of 69,200 ounces, marking a third consecutive annual shortfall, before the market is expected to move broadly into balance in 2026 with a modest surplus of around 20,000 ounces.



News Stream
Platinum Heads for Sharp Monthly Drop
Platinum futures rose above $1,900 an ounce, but remained on track for a roughly 18% decline in March, marking its worst monthly performance since October 2008. The war in the Middle East continued to broaden in the region with no end in sight, pushing the US dollar and bond yields higher. This reduced the appeal of non-yielding assets, while rising inflation risks due to elevated energy prices strengthened expectations of monetary tightening by major central banks. Platinum also remained under pressure from profit-taking, weakening automotive demand, and growing supply. After a strong rally in late 2025 and early 2026, investors are now locking in gains. Automotive demand, the largest industrial use for platinum, is also set to decline further as the shift to electric vehicles reduces reliance on catalytic converters. Although the market remains in deficit, the shortfall is expected to narrow due to increased recycling supply, particularly in Europe.
2026-03-30
Platinum is down by 5%
Platinum decreased 5% to 1829.6 USD/t.oz
2026-03-26
Platinum Attempts Recovery
Platinum futures rose above $1,900 an ounce, attempting to rebound from a three-month low as precious metals broadly advanced on hopes of a Middle East ceasefire. Reports indicate the US is advancing negotiations with Iran, including proposals aimed at ending the conflict. The move encouraged a shift back into safe-haven assets as dollar strength faded, while easing oil prices helped temper inflation concerns and reduce pressure for tighter monetary policy from major central banks. Meanwhile, softer industrial demand and improved supply conditions continued to weigh on prices. Investment demand is expected to drop by up to 52% partly due to weak retail interest, particularly in China. Automotive demand, the largest industrial use for platinum, is also set to decline further as the shift to electric vehicles reduces the need for catalytic converters. Though the market remains in deficit, the shortfall is expected to narrow due to increased recycling supply, particularly in Europe.
2026-03-25