SINGAPORE, March 18 -- Gold retailers in Singapore are increasing inventories as demand for the precious metal rises amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and shifting interest rate expectations.

As reported by The Straits Times (ST), bullion dealers, jewellers and pawnshops said purchases of gold bars, coins and jewellery have surged in recent weeks, alongside some interest in silver and a rise in customers trading or cashing in older items, with younger buyers also entering the market.

"We have seen more buyers than sellers over the past year, but we also are beginning to see more sellers entering the market, which is typical after strong price moves," David Mitchell, founder and managing director of Indigo Precious Metals told S...