Gold prices gain amid escalating U.S.-China tension

Gold prices rose on Friday in Asia as tensions escalated between the U.S. and China over Beijing’s national security laws.

China had approved to enact the laws in Hong Kong during the National People’s Congress on Thursday. U.S. President Donald Trump said he will reveal Washington’s response on Beijing’s decision later in the day.  

Gold futures climbed by 0.29% at $1,718.25 per ounce at 12:00 PM ET (5:00 AM GMT), continuing its gains from the previous session. Investors flocked to the yellow metal after risk sentiment soured over the mounting tensions between the two largest economies.

Stocks, which usually move in the opposite direction to gold, were mostly down on Friday.   

Meanwhile, investors will be watching U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s comments for hints on the Fed’s next move in a virtual discussion later in the day.