Explore major historical events that moved palladium prices from 1971 to 2024.
The WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic as the virus spread worldwide, triggering unprecedented lockdowns and economic collapse. Central banks launched the largest monetary stimulus in history - the Fed cut rates to zero and purchased $120 billion/month in assets. Gold initially dipped during the March liquidity crisis but then exploded to an all-time high of $2,067/oz in August 2020. Silver surged 150% from its March lows. Trillions in stimulus and negative real rates made precious metals incredibly attractive.
$2,067/oz (all-time high)
5 months
$29.14/oz
5 months (from March lows)
From $595/oz to $1,025/oz
5 months (from March lows)
From $2,875/oz to $1,985/oz
2 months (initial crash)
Sources: World Gold Council, WHO, Federal Reserve
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, triggering the largest European war since 1945. Western nations imposed severe sanctions on Russia, disrupting global energy and commodity markets. Gold initially spiked to $2,070/oz (matching the COVID high) as fear peaked, but later retreated as the war became protracted. Palladium (where Russia controls 40% of supply) soared 80% in days. Nickel trading was suspended on the LME after prices more than doubled in hours.
$2,070/oz
2 weeks
$3,440/oz (record high)
3 weeks
From $1,015/oz to $1,248/oz
2 weeks
Sources: LME, LBMA, World Platinum Investment Council
History provides context, but live data drives decisions. Monitor real-time gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and copper prices with interactive charts.