Singapore's first gold ETF is listed, Middle East conflict impacts gold prices

The Singapore Exchange today welcomed its first ETF tracking local gold reserves—the LionGlobal Physical Gold ETF officially listed, with the underlying gold purity not less than 99.5%. Previously, this fund was opened to retail and institutional investors on the over-the-counter platform about four months ago.

Singapore's move echoes the strategy of its competitor Hong Kong: Hong Kong has signed a gold clearing agreement with the Shanghai Gold Exchange and plans to build a vault with a capacity of over 2,000 tons within three years. However, as both regions expand their gold investments, gold prices are under pressure and falling, with U.S. gold futures dropping from over $5,400 per ounce on March 2 to as low as $4,100.

Analysts point out that Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz is driving up energy prices, exacerbating inflation expectations, and prompting central banks to delay easing monetary policy. Market logic has shifted from risk aversion to inflation, interest rates, and liquidity, putting continued pressure on gold.