Major financial institutions, including Citi and UBS, have raised their gold price forecasts amid rising trade tensions and increased central bank purchases. Citi now targets $3,000 an ounce in the short term, while UBS has adjusted its 12-month forecast to the same level, reflecting gold's appeal as a safe-haven asset amid global uncertainties. The metal is currently trading at $2,860, marking a 9% increase since the year's start.