Are Precious Metal Prices on the Rise Due to Safe-Haven Demand?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) The prices of gold and silver have been on an upward trajectory this Tuesday amidst heightened geopolitical tensions and anticipation of global monetary easing.
Threats from US President Donald Trump directed towards Colombia, Cuba, and Mexico regarding alleged drug shipments have intensified the safe haven demand for precious metals.
MCX gold futures for February climbed by 0.35 percent to reach Rs 1,38,600 per 10 grams around 1:30 pm, while MCX silver futures for March saw a rise of 1.49 percent, reaching Rs 2,49,820 per kg, closely approaching the all-time high levels recorded in December of Rs 1,40,465 per 10 grams and Rs 2,54,174 per kg.
According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the price of 10 grams of 24-carat gold on Tuesday stood at Rs 1,36,909, up from Rs 1,35,721 at the previous day's closing.
Experts indicate that the current upswing in gold and silver prices is primarily fueled by structural demand rather than transient speculative activities. Continued purchases of gold by central banks, ongoing geopolitical instability, and the expectation of global monetary easing are reinforcing gold's stature as a fundamental hedge in investment portfolios.
Silver gains additional backing from strong industrial demand linked to solar energy, electric vehicles, AI infrastructure, and broader electrification initiatives.
Rahul Kalantri, VP Commodities at Mehta Equities Ltd., noted that "Reports of Swiss banks moving to seize assets linked to Maduro have further bolstered bullion prices. Additionally, the weakening of the rupee continues to support domestic prices for gold and silver."
Kalantri also mentioned that gold has support levels at Rs 1,37,150-1,36,310 and resistance levels at Rs 1,39,350-1,40,670. For silver, support lies in the Rs 2,42,810 to 2,40,170 range while resistance is at Rs 2,49,810 to 2,51,470.
Investors are keenly awaiting essential U.S. employment data later this week to assess the Federal Reserve’s forthcoming policy trajectory.
Gold surged nearly 66 percent in CY25, exceeding $4,500 per ounce, while silver showcased an impressive 171 percent increase.