Gold Eyes Worst Month Against Oil Since 1973; Mining Stocks Slump Most Since 2008

Gold prices have dropped 13% month-to-date to $4,580/oz, marking the worst monthly performance against Brent crude since December 1973, with the gold-to-Brent ratio crashing 43%. Mining stocks have fallen 29% in 19 days due to the ongoing war in Iran, leading to the worst month for the sector since October 2008. Rising oil prices and inflation fears are impacting gold's status as a safe-haven asset, while mining margins are squeezed by increased energy costs. The VanEck Gold Miners ETF has seen a significant decline, reflecting the turmoil in the commodity markets.