Gold prices dipped below $2,985 per ounce, signifying a third consecutive day of decline as investors liquidated holdings to meet margin calls and secure profits amidst widespread market unrest. This downturn emerged in the wake of headlines related to President Trump's tariff policies, which unsettled market sentiment. Although officials from the administration sought to reassure markets by indicating that the tariffs would not destabilize the economy, analysts cautioned about potential slower economic growth and rising inflation. Further exacerbating tensions, President Trump threatened a 50% tariff on China unless it retracts its 34% retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods. The markets experienced additional volatility sparked by rumors of a possible 90-day tariff suspension, which was swiftly denied by the White House, resulting in significant intraday stock market fluctuations.