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Gold prices surge to record high amid tensions

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KUWAIT: Gold prices soared to an all-time high of $3,022 per ounce at the close of last week’s trading, driven by persistent global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, alongside tempered expectations regarding US interest rates. A specialized report by Kuwaiti bullion company Dar Al-Sabayek, issued on Sunday, revealed that gold had briefly touched a historic peak of $3,057 per ounce in midweek trading before retreating slightly due to profit-taking by investors capitalizing on the unprecedented surge in the precious metal.

Despite the slight decline, the report highlighted that gold registered gains for the third consecutive week, climbing by 0.7 percent since the start of last week. The upward trend was largely attributed to market anticipation of a reduction in US interest rates in the near term. The report further noted that while the US Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at its most recent meeting, it signaled the possibility of two rate cuts this year, enhancing gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset amid ongoing economic uncertainties.

Geopolitical tensions remained a key driver of demand for gold. The report cited the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and missile strikes from Yemen targeting US warships in the Red Sea as major factors contributing to heightened investor interest in gold as a hedge against global instability. However, the strengthening of the US dollar index, which reached 104.06 points, exerted downward pressure on gold prices by increasing its cost for foreign investors.

Last week’s record-breaking levels underscored growing concerns over the future of the global economy and escalating political risks, prompting investors to increase gold purchases as a protective measure. The report also pointed to US trade policies under former President Donald Trump, particularly the imposition of tariffs under the “America First” strategy, as a continued source of uncertainty affecting global markets.

These policies have fueled trade tensions, unsettled financial markets, and further driven investors toward gold as a means of safeguarding their portfolios. Looking ahead, the report anticipates that geopolitical instability will remain a significant factor supporting gold prices in the short term, with ongoing military escalation in Gaza, the crisis in Ukraine, and tensions in the Red Sea contributing to regional volatility. 

Forecasts suggest that gold prices could reach $3,500 per ounce by the end of the year, contingent on continued accommodative monetary policies in the US and a heightened risk of economic recession. Market participants are also closely monitoring key economic data releases this week, which could influence both gold prices and the US dollar’s trajectory. These include statements from Federal Reserve officials on monetary policy, personal income and spending figures, and the personal consumption expenditures price index.

On the local front, the Dar Al-Sabayek report noted that the price of 24-karat gold stood at KD 30.15 per gram (approximately $92), while 22-karat gold was priced at KD 27.54 per gram (around $84). Meanwhile, silver prices remained stable at KD 368 per kilogram (roughly $1,202). The report also clarified that an ounce, as a unit of measurement for precious metals, equals 31.103 grams, distinguishing it from its standard weight measurement of 28.349 grams. With continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty, gold remains a crucial asset for investors seeking stability amid volatile global conditions.- KUNA

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Crown Prince receives Egyptian Deputy PM

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KUWAIT: His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah received on Tuesday at Bayan Palace the Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, Lieutenant General Kamel Abdulhadi Al-Wazir, and his accompanying delegation on the occasion of their official visit to the country. The meeting was attended by Kuwait’s Minister of Public Works Dr Noura Al-Mashaan and Egypt’s Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout.– KUNA photos

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Workshop discusses health competency framework

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KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health (MoH) on Monday inaugurated a regional workshop titled “Competency Framework”, aimed at reviewing the preliminary draft of a competency framework for public health professionals. The three-day workshop is organized by the Gulf Center for Disease Control in cooperation with the Gulf Health Council and the Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control (KCDC).

In his opening remarks, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry, Dr Munther Al-Hasawi, welcomed a distinguished group of public health leaders and specialists from GCC countries, emphasizing the workshop’s importance in light of the increasing need to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public health workforce. Al-Hasawi stressed the critical role of investing in human capital through training, capacity building, and well-structured competency frameworks grounded in scientific and practical methodologies. He noted that public health competency goes beyond technical expertise, encompassing key administrative and interpersonal skills such as leadership, teamwork, and effective communication.

“Competency in public health is the ability to deliver appropriate, effective services to communities while achieving optimal outcomes,” Al-Hasawi said. “It includes service delivery, resource management, community engagement, and cross-sectoral cooperation.” Chairing the workshop, Dr Mohammed Al-Saeedan, Head of the Emergency Department – Public Health at KCDC, told reporters that the session aims to discuss and refine the initial draft of the framework with input from regional decision-makers and experts. The goal, he said, is to develop a comprehensive guide to strengthen the capabilities of the health workforce across GCC countries.

“Competency frameworks contribute to improving public health, increasing life expectancy, reducing the overall health burden, and advancing sustainable development,” Al-Saeedan explained. “Healthy individuals are more productive and better able to contribute to society.” He emphasized the importance of continuously updating public health guidelines and competency standards to build professional readiness and effectively address evolving health challenges. “Guidelines serve as essential tools in disease prevention and health promotion, guiding individuals and communities in making informed health choices that enhance quality of life,” he said.

Al-Saeedan noted that global shifts and the rising prevalence of diseases demand heightened preparedness and response capabilities. “As the world increasingly prioritizes prevention over treatment, public health professionals must be equipped with the highest level of skill and knowledge to manage emergencies and implement effective interventions,” he added. The workshop is expected to result in key recommendations that will shape a unified GCC approach to public health competency development and workforce excellence. — KUNA

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The hidden drivers behind high prices in Kuwait

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Although Kuwait was ranked earlier this year as the second least expensive Gulf country in the 2025 World Cost of Living Index, many residents feel that the prices of certain goods or services remain disproportionately high compared to other countries. While essential services — such as electricity, water, and fuel — are heavily subsidized and therefore inexpensive, other aspects of life, including housing, entertainment, and branded products, often carry a much steeper cost.

Therefore, according to economic expert Dr. Amer Al Tamimi, the root of the issue lies not in government policy, but in people’s behavior — whether it’s business owners inflating prices or consumers adopting high-cost lifestyles. Each year the state allocates no less than KD 6 billion in subsidies for electricity, water, fuel, and even certain food items. “In fact, the government has made life remarkably affordable for citizens — perhaps even too affordable.” But while basic goods may be inexpensive, the same cannot be said for luxury and lifestyle products. According to Al Tamimi, the high standard of living and strong purchasing power among Kuwait’s resident’s fuels intense demand for premium items — from cars and watches to high-end services and entertainment.

“These items might be cheaper elsewhere, but in Kuwait, the appetite for luxury pushes prices higher,” he explained. Even mid-range categories, such as transportation and clothing, are considered expensive when compared to regional or global averages. Social behavior plays a significant role in shaping price dynamics. “Some individuals, despite earning modest incomes, make choices driven by appearances,” said Al Tamimi. “Someone earning KD 1,000 might buy a car with KD 500 monthly installments just to keep up an image.”

This desire to showcase wealth creates an artificial demand for high-end goods and services. As demand rises, so do prices, creating a feedback loop that affects everything from café menus to car dealerships. “There’s a culture of excessive consumption. People need to rethink their habits, as rational consumption can lead to lower prices overall,” he suggested. This culture of overspending is reflected in many lifestyle choices. “I am surprised to see people pay for coffee delivery when they can simply an easily make it at home,” said Altamimi.

While some spending habits may be avoidable, others — like housing — are fundamental and affect nearly everyone. Al Tamimi pointed to Kuwait’s real estate market as one of the most significant contributors to the high cost of living, citing the soaring price of land. “Land alone accounts for around 70 to 75 percent of the total cost of any building,” he explained. “This is very different from many other countries, where land is more affordable and makes up a smaller portion of overall costs.” This imbalance has driven up both property prices and rent, placing a heavy burden on households and businesses alike. For many residents, housing expenses consume a large share of their monthly income.

Another key issue, Al Tamimi argued, is the lack of competition in certain markets. “Some goods are effectively monopolized by one, two, or three importers,” he noted. This concentration of market power gives a small number of players the ability to set prices with little competitive pressure. To address this, he urged efforts to open up the market. “Breaking these monopolies and encouraging more entrepreneurs to enter different sectors could help,” he said. “We need to streamline business procedures and reduce bureaucratic hurdles that currently discourage new players. In many cases, we only have a handful of stores selling certain products. More competition will ultimately benefit the consumer.”

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