Silver jumps to 2013 high, gold nears record on virus concerns

Silver jumped to the highest in almost seven years and gold continued its march toward a record on expectations more stimulus is needed to help the global economy recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

Investors have flocked to the precious metals on surging demand for havens amid a resurgence in virus cases, slowing growth and negative real interest rates in the US. After the success of a European rescue package this week, focus turns to negotiations between Republicans and Democrats on legislation to prop up the hobbled American economy.