Platinum Sinks to 11-Month Low

Platinum futures dropped below $1,560 an ounce, hovering at their lowest level since November 2025, as a liquidity-driven selloff swept across precious metals amid a broader stock market rout. Growing concerns over the sustainability of AI investment triggered a sharp decline in US stocks and a rally in Treasuries, prompting investors to liquidate gold and other liquid assets to meet margin calls and cover losses elsewhere. Rising oil prices amid the escalating Middle East conflict added pressure by stoking inflation fears and strengthening expectations that interest rates could remain elevated for longer, reducing the appeal of non-yielding metals. Platinum also faces fundamental headwinds, with the World Platinum Investment Council forecasting a 265,000-ounce market surplus in 2026, as weaker investment demand and softer jewelry consumption weigh on the outlook. Automotive demand is also expected to decline 4%, partly offset by a projected 5% increase in industrial demand.

Platinum futures fell around $1,600 an ounce, reaching their lowest level in three months as renewed energy-driven inflation risks pressured the precious metals complex. Crude prices rose as escalating Middle East tensions raised concerns over oil supply disruptions, reviving fears that higher energy costs could keep inflation elevated and force central banks to maintain tighter monetary policy. Higher interest rates typically weigh on non-yielding metals by increasing the opportunity cost of holding them. Investors are now watching the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy meeting for clues on the interest-rate outlook. Platinum also faces fundamental headwinds, with the World Platinum Investment Council forecasting a 265,000-ounce market surplus in 2026, as weaker investment demand and softer jewelry consumption weigh on the outlook. Automotive demand is also expected to decline 4%, partly offset by a projected 5% increase in industrial demand.

Platinum futures rose above $1,640 an ounce, recovering from a recent three-month low, as safe-haven demand amid expectations of higher-for-longer interest rates supported the market. Signs of persistent inflationary pressures strengthened the case for the Fed to keep rates elevated for longer, raising concerns over capital-intensive sectors, namely the AI buildout, and supporting demand as investors seek shelter. Meanwhile, global EV sales fell 2% in September, ending six consecutive months of growth, according to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence data. Slower EV adoption could support platinum demand by easing the shift away from combustion-engine vehicles, although resilient hybrid sales have helped cushion the decline. Over the longer term, however, higher rates could exert greater downward pressure in demand for the metal that carries no yield. Additionally, the WPIC sees total demand falling 18%, including a 32% drop in Chinese jewelry demand and a 4% decline in automotive demand.