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.
Gold Price History in India Over Years
The following table gives an idea of the Gold price increase over the years in India.
Year
| Average gold price (per 10 grams)
|
2016
| Rs. 28,500
|
2017
| Rs. 29,500
|
2018
| Rs. 31,000
|
2019
| Rs. 35,000
|
2020
| Rs. 49,500
|
2021
| Rs. 52,000
|
2022
| Rs. 48,500
|
2023
| Rs. 64,500
|
2024
| Rs. 71,385
|
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.
Gold Prices Increase Significantly
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.
Impact of Rising Gold Prices
- Investment shifts: The periodic Gold price increase is at the core its role as a hedge against economic and market uncertainty during periods of uncertain times. Investors increase allocations to gold as a safe holding when other investments decline. Central bank reserve diversification purchases of gold also propel prices.
- Jewellery market dynamics: Rising Indian gold prices, a major consumer, drive jewellery demand, especially at significant cultural occasions. Consumers can switch to lighter or alternative options, driving the jewellery sales and profitability, which must react to evolving consumer preferences.
- Technology sector adjustments: The technology sector, where gold is utilized because of its excellent electrical conductivity, is finding the cost of production rising as prices are escalating. This may decrease profit rates or price electronic items higher, which can affect what individuals desire to buy.
- Inflationary hedge: Exploring why Gold rate is increasing shows it as a traditional hedge against inflation, maintaining its value when the purchasing power of currency declines. Investors turn to gold as a safeguard, further driving prices up as they seek to preserve their wealth amid rising inflation.
- Currency effects: A weaker currency in gold-importing countries like India explains why Gold rate is increasing, significantly inflating domestic prices. When the local currency depreciates against the US dollar, gold imports become more expensive, contributing to higher domestic prices.
- Economic policy implications: Rising gold prices influence interest rates and monetary policy as central banks respond to changing economic conditions. Inflationary pressures may lead to adjustments in fiscal policies aimed at controlling economic imbalances and stabilizing the economy.
How the Increase in Gold Prices Affects the Indian Economy
India's deep-rooted connection to gold means that understanding why Gold rate is increasing is key to seeing how it significantly affects its economy. As one of the world's largest gold consumers, primarily for jewelry, higher prices lead to increased import costs. This rise adds to the trade deficit and strains India’s forex reserves, which may lead to a depreciation of the rupee.
Consumers experience reduced purchasing power, especially in rural areas where gold serves as a store of wealth. This can dampen demand for gold jewelry, impacting the jewelry sector and related industries. Rising gold prices can also contribute to overall inflation, increasing the cost of other commodities and affecting household budgets.
However, analyzing why Gold rate is increasing reveals how it can drive investment as investors seek a hedge against inflation and economic instability. This shift can impact financial markets, with more funds moving from equities to gold. Grasping these factors is essential to assess how increasing gold prices affect India's overall economic condition and financial resilience.
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
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