Platinum Slumps Below $1,800
2026-03-23 11:00
By
Joana Ferreira
1 min. read
Platinum futures fell below $1,800 per ounce, their weakest since December 2025, as the Middle East conflict and broader metals weakness dragged on sentiment.
A stronger US dollar and rising bond yields diminished the appeal of non-yielding assets, while inflation fears reinforced expectations of tighter monetary policy from major central banks.
The sell-off follows a late-2025/early-2026 rally, with investors now locking in profits, exacerbating the decline.
Investment demand is projected to plunge by up to 52% due to ETF outflows and softening retail interest, particularly in China, while automotive demand weakens as the shift to electric vehicles reduces reliance on catalytic converters.
Though the market remains in deficit, the shortfall is expected to narrow as recycling supply, especially in Europe, ramps up.