Comex gold price powers to record high on safe-haven demand

(Kitco News) - Comex gold futures prices are up and overnight hit a new record high of $2,085.40 an ounce, on safe-haven demand amid a jittery U.S. banking system and worries about a U.S. and/or global economic recession. Silver prices are also higher. June gold was last up $13.80 at $2,050.90 and July silver was up $0.234 at $25.915.

Risk aversion is keener late this week following another interest rate increase from the Federal Reserve Wednesday afternoon. The 0.25% hike in the Fed Funds rate was widely expected but it was no help for the U.S. banking system, parts of which are shaky. Reports now say PacWest Bancorp, a California-based lender, is in trouble. Its stock price saw a 60% decline in after-hours trading Wednesday. The bank is reported to be considering strategic options including a sale. PacWest is much smaller in size compared to failed Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic Bank. Still, this news is keeping U.S. banking turmoil on the front burner of the marketplace and keeping traders and investors nervous. Reads a Barrons headline today: "Powell says banking system is "sound and resilient;" try telling that to PacWest investors."