Current price of platinum as of Friday, January 16, 2026

Historical platinum performance

In the world of precious metals, platinum can be a prudent yet modest investment. Many investors purchase platinum to insulate their savings against currency devaluation that affects purchasing power. When inflation pressure rises, platinum prices typically climb in response—thereby preserving the value of your funds.

The past year has delivered platinum growth unmatched since 2008’s market upheaval. Platinum has since climbed more than 77%. This bull run really accelerated in June and has maintained its momentum throughout the rest of the year.

Several factors can explain this exceptional growth. Following gold’s impressive surge, many investors have sought platinum as a more affordable precious metal. And some investors have turned to platinum specifically as a hedge against inflation. Plus, South Africa’s primary mining centers—which dominate global platinum supply—have experienced some complications that affect production at the same time demand has been increasing.

What does “spot platinum” mean?

“Spot platinum” refers to the price platinum could in theory immediately be traded at, setting aside additional transaction costs like commissions, insurance, delivery, and other expenses. The spot price provides the foundation that precious metals dealers use to quote their platinum. A rising spot price signals higher demand pressures on platinum.

What is “price spread” in platinum trading?

“Price spread” is essentially the difference between the bid price (what purchasers are looking to offer) and the ask price (what vendors are hoping to get) for platinum.

Buyers’ bid prices always fall beneath sellers’ asking prices—however, the magnitude of this gap illuminates current market circumstances. A tight, narrow spread shows vigorous market participation with many traders. A wide spread signals lackluster trading with limited interest.

How to invest in platinum

Should you decide to pursue platinum investments, options abound. Choices include actual metal possession through coins or bars, jewelry, mining company equity, and mutual funds. The following represent typical selections for platinum investment:

• Platinum bullion and coins: Investment-grade platinum bars, rounds, and coins feature 99.95% purity standards.
• Platinum jewelry: When platinum becomes jewelry, the asking price exceeds pure bullion value because of manufacturing and design costs.
• Platinum mining stocks: A shareholder stake in platinum mining corporations provides platinum market exposure without investing directly in platinum.
• Platinum ETFs: Funds holding platinum assets deliver platinum market participation without requiring you to buy and store actual platinum.

Is it a good time to invest in platinum?

The price of platinum has experienced gradual changes throughout the years. That’s why it’s largely characterized as a conservative, steady-performer asset class.

The past year marked a dramatic departure, producing returns the likes of which we haven’t seen since its 2008 peak. Back then, platinum traded north of $2,100 per ounce before free falling to under $800 per ounce. Massive portfolio liquidations and lack of industrial demand during the 2008 crisis drove the collapse.

Past experience demonstrates that platinum has sensitivity to industrial output levels, since this particular precious metal serves multiple manufacturing purposes. That doesn’t mean it’s not a good idea—no investment is foolproof, after all.

If you’re after a precious metal with less volatility, you may prefer gold. Much of its value is because it is, put simply, valued for its beauty. It’s used in industry, as well, but not to the degree of platinum.

Current precious metals prices as of 8:15 a.m. ET on January 16, 2026

Gold remains the ideal for many precious metals investors. Its commanding market position creates greater stability. Silver has delivered eye-catching returns this year and continues providing accessible entry points for new investors. All of these metals (including platinum) can also be used in retirement accounts. For thorough comparisons, read through our articles on the best gold IRAs and the best silver IRAs.

The takeaway

Economic unpredictability and ongoing market turbulence have positioned platinum as a compelling investment. It’s increased in value by 77% over the past year. Just remember: Keeping precious metals below 15% of your total investment portfolio is the most sensible approach, according to experts.

Frequently asked questions