Gold surges past record $4,000 an ounce as uncertainty fuels rally

Analysts point to delays in the reporting of economic data due to the US government shutdown as one reason for the rise.

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Gold has seen its biggest rally since the 1970s, rising by around a third since April when US President Donald Trump announced tariffs which have upset global trade.

Analysts say another issue worrying investors is delays to the release of key economic data as the US government shutdown enters its second week.

Gold is seen as a so-called safe haven investment, which is expected to retain or increase its value during times of market turbulence or economic downturns.

At the same time, the Bank of England (BoE) has warned the value of AI tech companies "appear stretched" with a rising risk of a "sharp correction" to financial markets.