Gold prices have soared in 2025, breaking historical records by surpassing $4,000 per ounce, marking a 60% increase since the start of the year. In contrast, Bitcoin has seen a 5% decline over the same period. This surge in gold's value has driven interest in gold-backed cryptocurrencies like Tether Gold (XAUT), which allows investors to easily add gold to their portfolios using blockchain technology. Tether Gold (XAUT) is a token backed by one fine troy ounce of gold, available on the Ethereum blockchain. It offers a convenient and liquid method for investors to gain exposure to gold without the need for physical storage. Despite its advantages, XAUT carries counterparty risks, as it relies on Tether to maintain gold reserves and honor redemptions. The token's market cap currently stands at $2.1 billion, with Tether holding approximately 116 tons of gold. Looking ahead, analysts predict continued growth in gold prices, with forecasts suggesting new highs in 2026. CoinCodex projects a peak of $6,400, while Goldman Sachs and other major banks anticipate prices exceeding $5,000, driven by factors such as central bank demand and interest rate cuts.