Online reported that gold prices rose more than 1% on Monday, reaching the US$3400/ounce mark. As US dollar and U.S. bond yields weaken amid uncertainty in trade negotiations, the United States has stipulated that countries must reach an agreement before an August 1 deadline or face more tariffs. "As the August 1 deadline approaches, this creates a level of uncertainty in the market, which is certainly beneficial," said David Meger, head of metals trading at High Ridge Futures. Meger said rumors that the U.S. cut interest rates earlier than expected are heating, and speculation about the possible replacement of Federal Reserve Chairman Powell and a restructuring of the Federal Reserve have exacerbated market unease.