Gold prices in India continue to hover significantly below their record levels, even as geopolitical uncertainty persists in the Middle East.
Although bullion registered gains over the past week, the broader movement indicates that prices remain under pressure.
Internationally, gold on the COMEX settled at $4,679.70 per ounce, while domestic futures on the MCX ended at Rs 1,49,650 per 10 grams.
Current levels place gold roughly Rs 31,000 beneath its all-time high of Rs 1,80,779 per 10 grams, highlighting the gap between present valuations and earlier peaks.
Analysts noted that while geopolitical developments initially supported gold due to its safe-haven appeal, market sentiment has since shifted.
Comments from US President Donald Trump dampened expectations of a near-term ceasefire in the US-Iran situation, prompting investors to reassess their positions.
Attention has now turned to key economic indicators from the United States, including employment data such as non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate, which are expected to influence market direction.
At the same time, a surge in crude oil prices has contributed to a stronger US dollar and revived inflation concerns globally.
A firmer dollar typically weighs on gold, as it raises the cost of the metal for buyers using other currencies.
Market participants also pointed to solid US economic data as a limiting factor.
Strong labour market indicators have reinforced expectations that the US Federal Reserve may maintain elevated interest rates for longer.
Higher borrowing costs tend to reduce the attractiveness of gold, which does not offer returns like interest-bearing assets.
Technical Levels and Weekly Performance
From a technical standpoint, analysts identified support for gold near Rs 1,48,000 per 10 grams, with resistance seen around Rs 1,55,000.
Despite these constraints, gold recorded a weekly increase of about 2.2 per cent.
Experts said price movements in the near term are likely to remain sensitive to geopolitical developments and inflation trends, with volatility expected to persist.
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