Precious Metals Surge and ICE Protests: A Tumultuous Start to 2026

The first weeks of 2026 have seen a remarkable surge in investment into precious metals, particularly gold, as global economic tensions continue to mount. According to various experts, Donald Trump's aggressive policies and pressure on the US dollar are driving investors to seek the perceived safety of gold and silver.

Last year's extraordinary run in precious metals has only intensified in 2026. Gold, considered a safe haven asset, has been on a tear since last summer. The precious metal has risen by more than a quarter this month and hit a new high of just under $5,595 (£4,060) an ounce on Thursday. This surge can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including geopolitical instability, concerns over inflation, and uncertainty regarding the US economy under the Trump administration.

"Gold is seen as a hedge against uncertainty," explains John Hussman, President of Hussman Investment Trust. "As investors become increasingly concerned about the overall health of the economy, they often turn to gold as a safe haven."

ICE Out: Protests and Strikes Against Immigration Enforcement

-------------------------------------------------------------

Meanwhile, hundreds of protests and a nationwide strike are set to take place across the US on 30 and 31 January, as grassroots organizers take action against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in their communities. The protests come in response to the deaths of at least eight people in connection to ICE since the start of the year, including the high-profile killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

Activists are demanding the permanent removal of ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) from towns and cities across the US. These organizations have faced increasing criticism for their role in the detention and deportation of immigrants, particularly during the Trump administration.

"ICE has been wreaking havoc in our communities for too long," said Mijente Co-Founder and National Director Marisa Franco. "It's time for us to come together and demand an end to their violence and terror."

As protests and gold prices continue to make headlines, the first month of 2026 has set the stage for an eventful year filled with economic uncertainty and social activism.

Sources:

• "What is behind the extraordinary rise in investment into silver and gold?" The Guardian, 29 January 2026,
• "ICE Out strike and protests: what to know about demonstrations across the US," The Guardian, 29 January 2026,
• "Deaths linked to ICE in 2026," The Guardian, 28 January 2026,