[Gold Prices Hit Record High, Driven by Rate Cut Expectations and Geopolitical Risks] Institutional analysis indicates that gold prices continued their upward trend on Monday evening, reaching a record high, driven by safe-haven demand and market expectations of the Federal Reserve easing monetary policy. Saxo Bank analysts stated that weak U.S. inflation and employment data have reinforced expectations for rate cuts next year. Geopolitical factors have also contributed to the rise in gold prices, including the U.S. escalating its standoff with Venezuelan oil tankers and intercepting vessels off the South American coast.