Gold Soars, Silver Rises, Dollar Weakens: After Iran Fully Reopens the Strait of Hormuz, Easing Middle East War Concerns – April 18, 2026
Gold and Silver Surge, Dollar Weakens”: After Iran Fully Reopens the Strait of Hormuz Following Israel–Lebanon Ceasefire — Article by SO OK TRADING | April 18, 2026
Gold – The Shining Star
Global gold spot prices have climbed above $4,849 per ounce, with over 80% of analysts bullish, expecting a test of $5,038 next week.
Key Drivers: Middle East ceasefire, weaker US dollar, and expectations of Fed easing.
Strategy:
Long-term buyers: Accumulate at $4,730–$4,690.
Short-term traders: Operate within $4,750–$4,980. Conclusion: Gold remains the “hottest asset” with strong potential to hit $5,000 soon.
Silver – Rising Star of 2026
Latest prices stand at $79–$81 per ounce. Despite a pullback from January’s record high of $121.64, silver continues to shine in 2026.
Key Drivers: Strong demand from EV and solar industries, six consecutive years of supply shortages.
Forecasts:
J.P. Morgan: Average $81 this year.
Citibank: Target $110 in H2.
LiteFinance: Year-end range $95–$105.
Technical Levels: Support $72–$75, Resistance $88–$95. Conclusion: Silver is firmly in the spotlight, driven by green industry demand and investor interest.
US Dollar – Showing Weakness
The US Dollar Index (DXY) has slipped to 99, signaling weakness as ceasefire agreements ease safe-haven demand.
Thai Baht: 32.12/USD, strengthening alongside gold.
Next Week’s Range: 31.60–32.60/USD.
Major Currency Moves (April 18, 2026):
Yen: 158.64/USD – stronger on safe-haven demand.
Euro: 1.177/USD – supported by European recovery.
Yuan: 6.817/USD – stable to slightly stronger.
Won: 1,467/USD – stronger on capital inflows.
Singapore Dollar: 1.270/USD – narrow range.
Pound: 1.352/USD – firm on UK labor market strength.
Aussie Dollar: 0.717/USD – boosted by commodity prices.
Investor Takeaways
Gold: Clear uptrend, potential to reach $5,000.
Silver: The rising star, powered by EV and solar demand.
Dollar: Weakening, making precious metals more attractive.
Marketing Narrative: “2026 is the Year of Gold and Silver” — a weaker dollar is pushing precious metals back into the spotlight as safe-haven assets.
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