Oil settles higher on risk of disruptions to Venezuela, Russia supply

Gold prices have surged above $4,500 per ounce for the first time, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly between the U.S. and Venezuela, alongside rising concerns in Eastern Europe and frictions between China and Japan.

Gold prices have surged to a record high, surpassing $4,500 an ounce for the first time, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in Venezuela and anticipations of further interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve.

The United States has informed the United Nations of its intent to deprive Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and associated drug cartels of resources, escalating its campaign against the Maduro regime. This announcement comes amid heightened tensions following the U.S. seizure of an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast, which poses risks to over 30 sanctioned vessels in the region.

Venezuela has turned to floating storage solutions as its onshore storage tanks reach capacity, reflecting ongoing challenges in its oil sector amid geopolitical tensions and U.S. interventions. This shift highlights the country's struggle to manage its oil exports effectively.

Crude oil futures experienced a slight decline as the U.S. intensified its actions against Venezuela, particularly focusing on cutting off the country's oil trade and increasing pressure on Nicolás Maduro's regime. This comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Ukraine, which continue to influence market dynamics.

Venezuela has enacted a new law aimed at combating piracy and blockades in response to recent U.S. seizures of oil tankers off its coast, reflecting heightened tensions between the two nations. This legislative move comes amid ongoing political instability and economic challenges in Venezuela, particularly as the U.S. intensifies its military actions in the region.

In 2025, gold prices surged by 70%, reaching record highs, while Bitcoin experienced a decline of 6% following a rapid sell-off in October. This stark contrast highlights the diminishing appeal of Bitcoin as a store of value amid rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

Gold prices have eased after reaching record highs, surpassing $4,500 an ounce, amid escalating geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and Venezuela. The fluctuations in gold prices reflect investor reactions to the ongoing situation, particularly the U.S. government's actions against Venezuelan oil exports.