3 Gold Stocks to Watch as Iran Conflict Drives Safe-Haven Demand
Mar. 14, 2026 at 2:18am
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Escalating tensions surrounding Iran have injected volatility into global markets, prompting investors to seek safety in traditional defensive assets like gold. Prices have surged as concerns grow about potential disruptions to global oil supply and broader Middle East instability, with investors increasingly turning to bullion and gold-linked funds to protect portfolios from geopolitical risk. This long-term uptrend has reinforced gold’s reputation as a reliable store of value during turbulent periods, putting stocks like Newmont Corporation, Agnico Eagle Mines, and Royal Gold in focus.
Why it matters
Gold offers several advantages during crises, such as the current Iran conflict. Unlike currencies, it is not tied to any single government or central bank, making it attractive when political tensions rise. The metal also serves as a hedge against inflation, which becomes particularly relevant when wars threaten to push energy prices higher and destabilize global supply chains. For institutional investors, gold also provides diversification because it often performs well when equities or other risk assets decline.
The details
Over the past six months, gold prices have risen dramatically, gaining roughly 50% in dollar terms as global economic uncertainty, currency fluctuations and geopolitical tensions boosted demand for the metal. The broader rally began in 2025 when prices surged from around $2,600 to above $4,300 per ounce, driven by policy uncertainty, currency movements and increasing investor demand for hard assets.
- Gold prices surged sharply following military strikes involving Iran, at one point climbing above $5,400 per ounce.
- The recent surge is part of a broader rally that has been building for months.
The players
Newmont Corporation
A gold producer with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and an expected earnings growth rate of 27.6% for the current year.
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited
A global gold mining company engaged in the exploration, development and production of gold, with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and an expected earnings growth rate of 60.4% for the current year.
Royal Gold, Inc.
A Denver-based precious metals royalty and streaming company with a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and an expected earnings growth rate of 70.7% for the current year.
The takeaway
Gold remains an attractive investment today because the ongoing Iran conflict and economic uncertainty elevate its safe-haven appeal. Central banks and investors are diversifying away from risky assets, boosting gold’s demand as a hedge against market and policy risks.
