Singapore, March 18 -- Gold retailers in Singapore are increasing inventories to meet surging demand for the precious metal amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Bullion dealers and jewellers said purchases of gold have risen sharply in recent weeks, driven by safe-haven demand and expectations of interest rate cuts. Popular products include gold bars, coins and jewellery while some buyers are also turning to silver. Alongside middle-aged customers, a growing number of younger investors in their 20s and 30s are entering the market, viewing gold as a long-term investment asset. Market players noted that more people are also selling or trading older gold items to take advantage of high prices. According to industry insiders, demand has...