Gold prices experienced a brief dip in early trading, hovering just above the $4,000 per ounce mark, as uncertainty surrounding the U.S. government shutdown escalated. With no resolution in sight after seven days of standstill, this political turmoil has cast a shadow over financial markets and delayed crucial economic data that impacts Federal Reserve decisions. Despite these challenges, market analysts expect two more interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve this year. Adding to the uncertainty, political unrest in France and lingering geopolitical risks are driving demand for traditional safe-haven assets such as gold. Goldman Sachs has revised its long-term gold price forecast, now predicting $4,900 per ounce by December 2026, attributed to increased inflows into gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and purchases from central banks.