Gold traded close to record levels ahead of Trump’s new customs tariffs. The price of an ounce of gold found buyers around $3,130. Gold continues to show strength amid uncertainties in global trade. Today, the price of an ounce of gold climbed above $3,130, nearing record levels. The price of gold per ounce had risen to nearly $3,150 this year, marking an increase of around 20%. Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are expected to take effect today in the U.S. Trump stated that the customs tariffs would apply to all countries. Additional tariffs on automobiles are set to be implemented on Thursday. The White House did not disclose the details of the tariffs’ coverage. It was noted that the new customs tariffs would be implemented swiftly. Trump hinted that the tariffs would affect many countries, raising concerns about their economic impact. Moreover, the yellow metal was supported by expectations of interest rate cuts, central bank purchases, and strong demand for gold-backed investment funds. On the other hand, U.S. employment and manufacturing data pointed to a weak performance. The number of job openings in the country fell to 7.568 million in February, below market expectations. Manufacturing activity contracted in March after two consecutive months of growth. Investors are focused on the non-farm employment figures to be released on Friday. The effects of employment data on the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy will be monitored. In the local market, a gram of gold changed hands for 3,803 Turkish lira, while a quarter of a gold coin was bought for 6,215 Turkish lira.