October 17, 2025 / Real-time News — With gold prices recently hitting new highs, the global total market value of gold has officially surpassed $30 trillion, becoming the focal point of capital markets.

Since the beginning of this year, gold prices have been on the rise, starting from around $2,600-$2,700 per ounce, accelerating in the spring, experiencing mid-year high-level fluctuations, and then making a strong breakthrough in recent months. Each jump has validated the market's renewed recognition of gold's scarcity and safe-haven value.

(ImageSource: International Gold Price)

The Significance and Logic Behind the Market Value Milestone

The market value of gold crossing the $30 trillion threshold is not just a numerical achievement but carries symbolic meaning. In an era marked by turbulence and uncertainty, gold is transitioning from its traditional status as a "safe-haven asset" to a broader asset class.

Several factors have contributed to gold's rising allure: shifts in monetary policy expectations, inflationary pressures, geopolitical risks, central bank reserve strategies, and a resurgence in physical demand. Together, these factors have propelled gold's appeal.

Driving Forces Behind Gold Price Growth

The growing expectations for the U.S. Federal Reserve to lower interest rates have reduced the opportunity cost of holding gold. Meanwhile, geopolitical risks and global instability have led to sustained demand for gold as a safe-haven investment. Several central banks around the world have increased their gold reserves, providing steady buying support for the precious metal.

Performance of Gold-Related Stocks

Hong Kong's gold-related sector has also strengthened in response, becoming a key focus for capital allocation.

Zijin Mining Group (02899.HK): The company's stock price has surged from around HKD 16 at the beginning of the year to over HKD 32, with a year-to-date increase of more than 100%. As gold prices continue to hit new highs, the company's global gold and copper resource expansion continues to deliver value, with trading volumes significantly increasing, indicating ongoing capital inflow.

(Image Source: uSMART HK app)

Shandong Gold (01787.HK): The stock has gained nearly 70% year-to-date. Despite recent price fluctuations at high levels, the overall trend remains strong. As a leading gold producer in Mainland China, the company benefits from both expanded production and rising international gold prices.

(Image Source: uSMART HK app)

Zijin Gold International (02259.HK): Since its listing, the stock has performed strongly, with its price rising from around HKD 110 to nearly HKD 160 in a short period. This reflects market expectations regarding its brand and resource integration capabilities. As an extension of the Zijin Group, its performance highlights the capital market's growing recognition of the value within the gold industry chain.

(Image Source: uSMART HK app)

Overall, gold stocks show a positive correlation with international gold prices. While short-term volatility is inevitable, the gold sector remains attractive for medium- to long-term allocation, supported by global risk-aversion sentiment and central bank gold accumulation trends.

Investment and Risk Perspectives

While gold is now regarded as a new global asset leader, this does not guarantee continuous growth. If the U.S. economy rebounds strongly, inflation rises again, monetary policies become more hawkish, or the U.S. dollar strengthens, gold could face technical pullbacks. At high price levels, risks associated with profit-taking and liquidity flows cannot be overlooked. Investors are advised to control positions at high levels, diversify gradually, and closely monitor macroeconomic indicators, the U.S. dollar's direction, and policy shifts.

Outlook: A New Era for Gold?

Surpassing $30 trillion in market value may just be the starting point. As global economic and financial system uncertainties intensify, the capital landscape could be reshaped. In this evolving scenario, if gold can maintain its status as a "hard asset" while continuing to optimize its stability, institutional acceptance, and trading convenience, its voice in global asset allocation could be significantly amplified, transitioning from a mere safe-haven tool to a truly core investment option.