Gold’s Historic Surge
Gold is on pace for its best year since 1979, with prices up about 71% amid geopolitical conflict, trade disruptions, and economic uncertainty driving investors toward safe havens. Falling bond yields, expectations for Fed rate cuts, and a weaker US dollar have made gold more attractive relative to stocks and bonds. Central banks such as China’s are buying gold at record levels to reduce reliance on the US dollar, adding a structural boost to demand. Other precious metals have surged alongside gold, and analysts expect prices to remain elevated into 2026 as demand rises and supply tightens.
A Housing Reset Ahead
After years of high prices and borrowing costs freezing the market, economists expect 2026 to mark a turning point for U.S. housing. Rising incomes, modestly lower mortgage rates, and more sellers adjusting to rates above 6% could boost inventory and lift sales, even if prices stay roughly flat. Home prices are unlikely to fall meaningfully nationwide, but affordability may improve slightly as activity picks up from historically low levels. Rents are expected to resume rising, and while the Trump administration has signaled a focus on housing affordability, major policy-driven changes are unlikely to arrive quickly.
US Pushes Tech Hiring
The Trump administration has launched a campaign to hire a thousand engineers for two-year federal roles, with a focus on AI, software, cybersecurity, and data analytics. The engineers will work on targeted government projects, including building a digital platform for new Trump administration savings accounts for children, with the first hires expected by March 31. The initiative is part of a broader AI agenda led in part by former PayPal executive David Sacks, aiming to bring private-sector talent into government. Major tech companies such as Apple, Google, and Nvidia have pledged to consider program alumni for future roles, expanding on a smaller, similar effort started under the Biden administration.
As always, Base Wealth Management remains focused on aligning investment strategies with your long-term goals amid evolving market conditions.
