Gold rate today, Feb. 19 -- Following the rise in safe-haven demand for gold on macro-economic uncertainty caused by Donald Trump's tariff rant, MCX gold rate continues to trade above Rs.86,000 per 10 gm mark. Gold futures contract opened with a downside gap at Rs.86,058 per 10 gm and touched an intraday low of Rs.85,980 within a few minutes of the Opening Bell on Wednesday.

"The prospect of escalating trade tensions bolstered gold's safe-haven appeal. However, hawkish comments from Federal Reserve officials limited further gains. Fed Governors Bowman and Waller expressed cautious views on additional interest rate cuts, citing persistent inflationary pressures. Investors are now focused on releasing the Fed's meeting minutes on Wednesday...