Mon Dec 29 03:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text:

Gold Prices Hover Near Record Highs Amid Anticipated Rate Cuts

New Delhi: Gold prices remain robust, trading near all-time highs despite recent fluctuations in the international market. Optimism surrounding potential interest rate cuts by major central banks, particularly the US Federal Reserve in 2026, is a key factor bolstering the precious metal.

While international gold prices experienced a slight dip of roughly 1% in recent trading, they continue to hold near record levels. A weaker US dollar, a continued demand for safe-haven assets, and expectations of the Federal Reserve easing monetary policy are collectively supporting gold’s price strength. The dollar index remains near three-month lows, further enhancing the appeal of gold, which yields no interest.

Indian Markets See Record Highs

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) in India, gold futures have witnessed a remarkable surge in the past week. Gold futures closed on December 26th at ₹1,40,465 per 10 grams, a new all-time high, with gains of ₹5,677 or 4.23% in the past week alone. Market experts anticipate potentially subdued trading volumes in the near term as investors await the release of minutes from the upcoming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, which could offer insights into the timing and pace of interest rate cuts.

2026 Outlook: Continued Positive Trend

Pranav Mer, Vice President of Commodity and Currency Research at JM Financial Services, anticipates that while 2026 may not replicate the rapid gains seen in 2025, the long-term outlook for gold remains positive. He believes expectations of easing monetary policy, de-dollarization trends, and global trade tensions will continue to provide support.

Mer forecasts that international gold prices could reach $5,000 to $5,200 per ounce in 2026, with domestic MCX prices potentially reaching ₹1.50 lakh to ₹1.55 lakh per 10 grams.

Monitoring Global Cues

Investors are closely monitoring the upcoming Bank of Japan meeting, global trade developments, and the economic situation in both the United States and China. Internationally, gold prices have surged by $165.4, or 3.77%, in the past week, reaching an all-time high of $4,584 per ounce on COMEX.

Analysts note that while central bank gold purchases have slowed somewhat compared to the past three years, buying continues due to currency risks and the need for portfolio diversification.

Gold Remains a Safe Haven

Prathamesh Mallya, DVP of Non-Agri Commodities and Currency Research at Angel One, believes that easing interest rates and expectations of further cuts have made gold even more attractive. He also points to geopolitical uncertainty and trade-related risks as drivers of safe-haven investment in gold. Mallya expects domestic gold prices to reach ₹1.60 lakh per 10 grams in the first half of 2026.

[Related Article: Silver Prices See Volatility After Global Record]

Disclaimer: Investment decisions should be made after consulting with a certified financial expert. The views and investment advice provided by experts/brokerage firms are their own and do not represent the views of the website and its management.

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