[Analysts Predict 13% of Total Positions in NYMEX Silver Market May Be Liquidated, Triggering Price Reassessment] As trading kicks off in 2026, gold and silver prices continue their best annual performance since 1979. However, concerns over index rebalancing may exert pressure on prices. Tim Waterer, Chief Market Analyst at KCM Trade, stated that the precious metals market is extending the trends seen in 2025, with fundamentals regaining focus after year-end selling pressure eased, and gold starting the new year on an upward trajectory. Daniel Ghali, Senior Commodity Strategist at TD Securities, noted in a report that within the next two weeks, up to 13% of total positions in the New York Mercantile Exchange (Comex) silver market are expected to be liquidated, potentially leading to significant price reassessment and declines. Additionally, post-holiday low liquidity may exacerbate price volatility. Goldman Sachs predicts gold prices will rise to $4,900 per ounce, driven by expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts and President Trump reshaping the Fed leadership, with bullish sentiment dominating among major banks.