Wild swings in equities, a softer dollar and concerns over slowing economic growth may push gold prices towards $1,400 (Dh5,138) per ounce in 2019, experts have said.

Gold prices hit a six-month high on Friday as concerns over global growth and a partial government shutdown in the US fuelled risk aversion, prompting investors to seek refuge in the metal.

Spot gold climbed 0.3 per cent to $1,279.17 (Dh4,690) per ounce, up 1.8 per cent so far this week. The metal hit $1,282.09 (Dh4,704) in early trade on Friday, its highest since June 19.

In Dubai on Saturday, 24k gold was at Dh155 per gramme.