Kavita Chacko

Global and domestic gold prices stay elevated, y-t-d gains at 16%. Jewellery demand subdued; investment demand dominant. Significant widening of discounts between domestic and international gold prices. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) grows its gold reserves with its highest monthly purchase in nearly two years in June. Gold ETFs inflows sustain momentum in June. Steady trend in gold imports.

Gold rose to a new all-time high in mid-May before pulling back, likely on profit taking, to close the month at US$2,343/oz. This delivered a 1% monthly increase, adding to gains in March (9%) and April (5%).

International and domestic gold prices moderated from the April peaks but ended the month with gains following the notable price rise of March. After a weak March and April, there was resurgence in gold demand around the Akshaya Tritiya festival. Domestic gold prices continue to trade at a discount in relation to the international prices, but the discounts have narrowed from a month ago. Meanwhile, the RBI added to its gold reserves in April and gold ETFs witnessed outflows for the first time in 12 months.

International and domestic gold prices have risen to unprecedented levels. The price surge has impacted jewellery demand but stimulated investment (bar and coin) demand. Domestic gold prices continues to trade at a discount in relation to the international prices. Meanwhile, the RBI added to its gold reserves in March, inflows into gold ETFs moderated and imports saw a sharp fall. 

International and domestic gold prices alike touched record high in early March. The price surge presents headwinds for gold demand, even in the face of the ongoing wedding season. Domestic gold prices is trading at a discount in relation to the international prices with demand being crimped by high prices. Meanwhile, the RBI added to its gold reserves in February, inflows into gold ETFs maintained positive momentum and imports saw a sharp rise.

International and domestic gold prices alike retreated in January. Prices nevertheless remain high and this has been impacting gold jewellery demand in India. Gold imports too have moderated. Domestic gold prices began to trade at a premium to international prices since late January following nearly three months of trading at a discount. Meanwhile, the RBI made the highest monthly purchase of gold in eighteen months in January and Indian gold ETFs continue to see inflows.

Gold price in INR rose in tandem (11% since October) with the LBMA Gold Price PM in USD, due to the stable INR/USD.