Gold futures stabilized just below $4,000 per ounce during early Asian trading as geopolitical tensions and U.S. government shutdown fears boosted safe-haven demand. The precious metal reached record levels, reflecting capital flows from equities into hard assets. Central banks have added over 180 tons of gold this quarter, reinforcing hedging activity. With risk sentiment weakening globally, bullion’s strength signals heightened investor preference for stability amid ongoing market volatility.