Gold traded near record levels ahead of Trump’s new customs tariffs. An ounce of gold found buyers around $3,130. Gold continues to show strength amid uncertainties in global trade. Today, gold rose above $3,130, close to record levels. The price of gold per ounce had risen to nearly $3,150 this year, an increase of nearly 20 percent. The mutual tariffs imposed by Donald Trump in the US are expected to take effect today. Trump said the tariffs would apply to all countries. Additional customs tariffs on automobiles will be implemented on Thursday. The White House did not disclose the details of the tariffs. It was stated that the new customs tariffs would be implemented quickly. Trump hinted that the tariffs would affect many countries, raising concerns about their economic impact. Furthermore, the demand for gold was supported by expectations of interest rate cuts, central bank purchases, and strong demand for gold-backed investment funds. On the other hand, US employment and manufacturing data pointed to weak performance. The number of job openings in the country fell to 7,568,000 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 Fed’s monetary policy will be monitored. Gram of gold exchanged hands at 3,803 Turkish lira. A quarter of gold found buyers at 6,215 Turkish lira.