📝 Executive Summary
Gold prices extended a sharp rally on Monday, as large institutional buyers and central banks accelerated purchases, pushing XAU/USD above the key $2,800 resistance level for the first time since April. The surge came amid persistent geopolitical risks and signs of sticky inflation that have kept safe-haven demand elevated. Analysts note that while ETF inflows have also picked up, it is sovereign wealth funds and global central banks—led by China—that are underpinning the move, with record buy volumes reported in recent sessions. The rally triggered a cascade of stop-loss orders and momentum-chasing, lifting prices over 3% intraday.