“Should Have Bought It Earlier” — This Asset Surged Twice as Much as Gold, Soaring 147%

[Financial News] As the rally continues across the commodities market, the price of Platinum is rising sharply, following Gold and Silver. In December alone, Platinum soared by 34%, marking the highest monthly increase since 1986.

According to the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) on the 1st, Platinum futures reached $2,025 per ounce, a 147.67% surge compared to the end of 2024. On December 26 last year, prices hit an all-time high of $2,534.70. The annual increase for Platinum reached 147%, while Palladium, another platinum group metal (PGM), rose 80%.
After Gold and Silver jumped more than 60% and 160% respectively last year, copper, Platinum, and Palladium are also showing strong momentum. Platinum and Palladium are used in catalytic converters for exhaust gas control. Uncertainty surrounding the USA’s tariff policies and the rally in Gold and Silver prices have offset long-term headwinds such as the expansion of electric vehicles, supporting the rise in Platinum and Palladium prices this year.
The sharp rise in Platinum prices is largely attributed to a combination of supply shortages and expanding demand. As the USA designated Platinum and Palladium as 'critical minerals' and raised the possibility of imposing tariffs, a significant volume of spot supplies shifted to the USA. This led to shortages in other regions, causing prices to climb steeply. Additionally, the European Union (EU)’s withdrawal of its ban on internal combustion engine vehicle sales has heightened expectations for Platinum demand in engine emission control devices. The launch of platinum group metal futures trading in China a month ago has also contributed to the surge.

However, the market is leaning toward the possibility of a short-term correction, given the rapid pace of recent price increases. Looking ahead, the upward potential is expected to be sustained, especially for Gold. In fact, Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Palladium all declined simultaneously on December 31, 2025, the last day of the year, after the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) raised margin requirements.
Nevertheless, experts believe that despite the year-end correction in Gold prices, the upward trend will continue this year. In its recently published 2026 outlook report, Heraeus Group stated, “After the sharp rise in 2025, a period of price reset and consolidation is expected through the first half of 2026.” The report also noted, “With major central banks likely to maintain low real interest rates, investment demand for precious metals will remain supported.”
bng@fnnews.com Kim Hee-sun Reporter