Gold’s allure has intensified as prices soared to a record high of ₹1,16,203 per 10 grams on Monday, driven by international market trends and a weaker rupee against the US dollar. This surge has outpaced gains in overseas markets, highlighting gold’s status as a safe-haven asset amid ongoing economic uncertainties.
Market Overview
As of 1:40 PM on Monday, December gold futures were trading at ₹1,15,801 on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), marking an increase of ₹910 or 0.8%. Concurrently, on the COMEX, gold prices hovered around $3,836 per troy ounce, up by $27 or 0.71%. The combination of a weaker rupee and global market dynamics has created a perfect storm for gold prices to rise.
Factors Influencing Gold Prices
Several factors are contributing to the recent surge in gold prices:
Economic Uncertainties: Ongoing concerns regarding US tariff policies and geopolitical tensions have created a climate of uncertainty. This has led investors to flock to gold as a safe-haven asset.
Weak Dollar: The dollar’s weakness against a basket of six major currencies has further bolstered gold prices, making it more attractive to international buyers.
US Federal Reserve Policies: Jateen Trivedi, Vice President and Research Analyst at LKP Securities, noted that gold is currently pricing in trade tariff concerns and the Federal Reserve’s recent 25 basis points rate cut. With weak payroll data suggesting further cuts may be on the horizon, gold remains a favored investment.
Upcoming Economic Indicators
Looking ahead, key economic indicators such as non-farm payrolls and jobless claims will play a crucial role in guiding the Federal Reserve’s next steps. These indicators will be closely monitored by traders and investors alike.
Domestic Influences
On the domestic front, the rupee remains under pressure due to US tariffs on India, which adds extra support for MCX gold prices. This dynamic is crucial for traders to consider as they navigate the market.
Technical Analysis: Key Indicators to Watch
Trivedi has outlined five technical indicators that traders should monitor closely:
1. Key Support & Resistance Levels
Gold December futures have shown strong momentum, holding above ₹1,15,000. Key support is identified at ₹1,13,800 – ₹1,14,000, while immediate resistance is seen at ₹1,16,500, with the next level at ₹1,17,200. As long as prices remain above ₹1,13,800, buying momentum is expected to continue.
2. Momentum Indicators
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently near 74–75, indicating an overbought condition. However, it remains above 70, reflecting strong bullish momentum.
3. Bollinger Bands
Gold prices have broken above the upper Bollinger band, confirming strong upside momentum. This also suggests the potential for short-term volatility or a mild retracement.
4. Moving Averages
The shorter Exponential Moving Average (EMA) of 8 is comfortably above the EMA of 21, confirming a continuation of the bullish trend. Any dip toward the EMA 8 near ₹1,14,300 – ₹1,14,400 is viewed as a strong buying opportunity.
5. MACD
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) line remains above the signal line, with positive histogram bars supporting the continuation of bullish momentum in the near term.
Trading Strategy
Trivedi recommends a “buy on dips” strategy near ₹1,15,000, with a stop loss set at ₹1,13,800 (on a closing basis) and an initial target of ₹1,16,500. A sustained trade above ₹1,16,500 could extend gains towards ₹1,17,200.
Conclusion
As gold continues to reach new heights, it remains a focal point for investors navigating a landscape filled with economic uncertainties. With key indicators and strategies in place, traders are well-positioned to capitalize on the ongoing bullish trend.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by the experts are their own and do not represent the views of Economic Times.)
Gold’s recent performance underscores its enduring appeal as a reliable and trusted asset in times of volatility.