Gold has always been and continues to be a timeless investment choice, cherished for its stability and cultural significance, especially in the Indian market. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its financial security but also in its role as a symbol of love, heritage, and wealth, passed down through generations. What sets gold apart is its ability to act as a safe haven, offering a protective cushion against market volatility. For investors, gold remains a reliable shield in uncertain times, making it a classic choice for wealth preservation.
However, gold prices have been increasing significantly every day. When thinking about investing in or buying gold, it is natural to wonder why it happens. What leads to this increase in gold prices? Continue reading as we delve deep into this phenomenon as to why gold prices increase.
Factors that Influence Gold Prices
As mentioned, the gold prices rising every day has been a common phenomenon. There are a variety of factors affecting gold prices. Here are some of them.
When it comes to factors affecting gold prices, demand and supply are prominent factors leading to the price change.
As a unique item with a high value, the scarcity of gold further enhances its attraction and price.
The gold demand increases because of a variety of factors, including geopolitical factors, economic tensions, and more.
As mentioned, gold has always been used as a financial cushion against unplanned circumstances. This means it also serves as a financial hedge.
In case of inflation where the value of conventional investments might go up and down, investors tend to invest in gold. It acts as a financial safeguard where it maintains a good value without much effect of the devaluation of the currency, and much more. Thus making gold an attractive option even for uncertain times, leading to an increase in its prices.
The rate of interest is another factor influencing gold demand and prices. How, you ask? Well, there is an inverse relationship between the rate of interest and gold. This means with a lower rate of interest, gold becomes a more attractive investment option. Plus, it also becomes a suitable alternative to other low-yielding investments.
Alternatively, a comparatively higher rate of interest means a decline in the appeal of gold. This happens because other sources of investment now become more attractive and profitable. Thus causing a decline in gold prices and demand.
One of the crucial factors affecting gold prices or leading to a rise in gold prices is the festive season or seasonal trends. You might have noticed how gold prices generally rise during cultural festivals. Ever wondered why that happens?
Well, gold has always been a traditional item in India and is given a huge cultural importance. This is the reason why gold is a highly demanded piece of jewellery at weddings and other festivals. This surge in demand during festive seasons can lead to gold prices rising during the same.
Another factor that affects gold prices is the government's actions and policies. For example, the sale and purchase of gold reserves by the government can lead to an increase or decrease in gold prices. Similarly, if the government also engaged in big global purchases, the same can impact gold prices even in the global market.
Further, RBI transactions can also influence price changes.
While most of you might not be aware of this, gold is also sold and purchased using the US dollar. This means any change in the value of the US dollar also changes the price of gold. This ultimately means with a strengthening of dollar value, the price of gold decreases. Alternatively, a weakening of the dollar means a rise in gold prices. The same happens because of the high demand from investors to use gold as a financial hedge against economic uncertainties and inflation.
Why is Gold So Valuable?
Now that you know what leads to gold prices rising and falling in the global and domestic markets, let's move ahead. Let's explore what makes gold this valuable.
Well, first, the value of gold remains precious and comparatively consistent because of its historical and cultural significance. The scarcity of the metal also makes it valuable. For a long time, gold has been attracting societies because of its rarity and aesthetics. From being used as a medium of exchange to possession to showcase wealth and status, gold has been used for several purposes.
It also established its importance from being used as a store of value to being a hedge against economic uncertainties. Additionally, gold also possesses certain unique properties, making itself an important metal that can be used for various purposes, like in aerospace or electronics.
All in all, the traditional significance, scarcity and rarity of the metal, along with its diverse uses, enhance the value of gold.
Significant Gold Price Rises
Gold establishes its value owing to a bunch of things, like rarity, cultural significance, and more. However, several factors have been impacting the gold prices. Here are some of the most popular and known trends of rising gold prices.
Oct 2024: From standing at ₹60,282, the gold prices rose to ₹78,577 per 10 gm, showcasing an increase of 30% since Diwali 2023.
May 2023: With an increase in the US Federal rate of interest, gold prices reached a new high of ₹62,270 per 10 gm.
March 2022: The market fluctuations caused by the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the predictions of inflation led to gold prices rising in the year 2022. The gold prices stood around ₹55,000 per 10 gm.
Conclusion
Gold has been a timeless investment for investors looking for safe yet valuable investments. From being looked at as a traditional heritage to an inflation hedge, gold provides a financial cushion Against market fluctuations. However, before making a final decision, make sure to consider factors like your financial goals, inflation, and more to make an informed decision.
Additional Read: How to Invest in Digital Gold