A NEW RECORD HIGH FOR GOLD ON RECESSION WORRIES, WEAK DOLLAR & S. AFRICA POWER SHORTAGES

Saturday February 2, 12:12 AM

 

LONDON (AFP) - Gold prices hit a historic 936.92 dollars per ounce on Friday as the yellow metal was boosted by strains in the US economy and weakness of the dollar, analysts said.

The record-breaking run on the London Bullion Market beat the previous high of $933.33 set on Tuesday.

Platinum meanwhile soared to an historic high of $1,760 an ounce on the London Platinum and Palladium Market.

Precious metals are in demand by investors seek a safe haven for their cash amid deepening concerns that the US economy could be heading for a recession.

Weakness of the dollar encourages demand for dollar-priced commodities because it makes them cheaper for buyers using stronger currencies.

In recent days, power shortages in South Africa -- the world's biggest gold producer -- have also paralyzed mining activity and put even more pressure on prices.