U.S. stocks sink on worries about inflation as gold falls below $5,000 per ounce

PBS NewsHour
by Stan Choe, Associated Press
March 18, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

U.S. stocks fell on inflation fears as gold dropped below $5,000, with oil price spikes adding to pressure on prices.

How This Affects You

Rising energy-driven inflation will increase borrowing costs and reduce your purchasing power as prices ripple through the broader economy.

AI Summary

U.S. stocks declined Wednesday amid mounting inflation concerns, with gold falling below $5,000 per ounce as markets reassessed economic risks. An inflation report suggested price pressures were set to accelerate even before recent oil price spikes tied to the Iran conflict added further upward pressure on energy costs. The dual threat of persistent inflation and geopolitical supply disruptions has rattled investors already worried about the Federal Reserve's policy path and corporate profit margins. Energy-driven inflation typically ripples through the broader economy, raising borrowing costs and reducing consumer purchasing power. The decline in gold—typically seen as a haven asset during economic uncertainty—reflects broader market volatility as traders weigh stagflation risks.

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