Gold’s remarkable 27% surge in 2024 marked its best performance in 14 years, with prices now hovering above $2,670 per ounce. Wall Street’s major players are projecting continued strength, with both JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs forecasting prices to reach $3,000 in 2025. This bullish outlook is supported by multiple factors: anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts, increased bullion purchases by emerging market central banks seeking protection against financial and geopolitical risks, and potential inflationary pressures from proposed policy changes. Notably, analysts suggest that retail investor participation, which remained relatively subdued in 2024, could increase if interest rates decrease or inflation concerns mount, potentially providing additional support for gold prices.