Gold prices surged to a fresh all-time peak of $2,263.53 per ounce in global markets on Monday amidst escalating geopolitical tensions in Central Asia and indications from the US Federal Reserve suggesting a potential rate cut.
Reflecting this upward trend in international markets, the price of MCX gold in India skyrocketed to an unprecedented level of Rs 69,487 per 10 grams during initial trading hours, settling at Rs 68,828 by 11:26 am.
Colin Shah, Founder and Managing Director of Kama Jewelry, highlighted, “The surge in gold prices is attributed to signals from the US Federal Reserve indicating a potential rate cut… Gold has consistently remained a favored asset class for central banks and a safe-haven investment avenue.”
Anticipation of lower interest rates tends to diminish the appeal of financial instruments compared to gold, leading to heightened purchases of the precious metal and subsequent price hikes.
Increased geopolitical risks and acquisitions by central banks, notably China, have also contributed to the upward trajectory of gold prices. With ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the expansion of the Israel-Hamas dispute into the Red Sea region, investors perceive gold as a desirable safe haven amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
In the domestic market, the demand for gold is driven by its traditional significance in marriages, where it is exchanged in substantial quantities as jewelry between brides and grooms. However, jewelers express concerns that the soaring gold prices may dampen this demand, a sentiment echoed by observations of declining imports of the precious metal.
Dr. Joseph Thomas, Head of Research at Emkay Wealth Management, remarked, “Gold prices have steadily risen over the past six months in anticipation of a dovish Federal Reserve policy… The decline in interest rates bodes well for gold prices. Breaking through significant long-term resistance levels suggests strong momentum, which may persist in the near to medium term, albeit with potential for some profit-taking.”
