Despite the turmoil in Ukraine, equities remained strong on Friday. Investors were moving money out of other assets into the stock market.

Despite the turmoil in Ukraine, equities remained strong on Friday. Investors were moving money out of other assets into the stock market. As a result, gold prices saw a decline since there was a reduction in demand for the precious metal. What we saw Friday is quite the opposite of what we are seeing on the screens this morning! Precious metals are trading in the positive territory this morning with gold up 1.8%. The escalating crisis in  Ukraine has pushed nervous investors out of equities and emerging market funds straight into safe haven assets such as the Japanese yen and gold. The shiny yellow metal could continue to see some upside amid geopolitical concerns. Pending Home Sales were up .1% in January vs. 2% estimate. Other than the weather being one of the reasons why the figure missed forecasts, there is simply a lack of homes for sale especially in the West Coast. Have a great day!