risk-off sentiment

Gold mining stocks, including $B2G, fell sharply March 19 as gold futures dropped 5% amid geopolitical tensions and Fed rate-hold signals.

Escalating Middle East tensions drive investors to defensive stocks including defense contractors, energy majors, consumer staples, and utilities offering stability and income.

Treasury yields fell 25 basis points in a week on softer-than-expected inflation data, prompting investors to reassess rate expectations and reposition portfolios.