Periodic downward corrections or sharp sell-offs in gold prices are typically driven by a strengthening U.S. dollar, rising or persistently high real interest rates, and aggressive monetary policy shifts by central banks. When government bonds and interest-bearing instruments offer attractive yields, the opportunity cost of holding a non-yielding asset like gold increases. Furthermore, massive profit booking by institutional investors and broad liquidation across commodities to cover equity market margin calls frequently exacerbate short-term price drops.