Gold Rate Update: Falling Prices Bring Relief to Jewellery Buyers, Experts Explain Market Trends
- National
- (Asia/Kolkata)
The recent decline in gold prices could bring relief to people planning to purchase jewellery during the ongoing wedding season. Gold rates have fallen by more than 5% over the past month, making the precious metal relatively more affordable for household buyers and investors.
On October 21, 2026, the price of 24-carat gold stood at Rs 1,46,270 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold was priced at Rs 1,34,081 per 10 grams. The latest reported rates show 24-carat gold at Rs 1,46,020, 22-carat gold at Rs 1,33,850 and 18-carat gold at Rs 1,09,520 per 10 grams.
According to a website tracking bullion prices, 24-carat gold was trading at Rs 1,53,780 per 10 grams on September 21, 2026. This means the price declined by Rs 7,510 over one month, marking a fall of approximately 5.13%.
The decline has attracted attention as demand for gold jewellery generally increases during the festive and wedding seasons. Market experts believe the current price correction could provide an opportunity for buyers, although fluctuations may continue.
Why Are Gold Prices Falling?
Several international economic and market-related factors have contributed to the recent decline in gold prices.
1. Higher US Interest Rates and Bond Yields
Expectations of persistent inflation in the United States and a tighter monetary policy by the US Federal Reserve have pushed up returns on US government bonds.
Gold does not generate interest or regular income. Therefore, when government bonds offer better returns, investors often shift their money towards these instruments instead of holding gold. This reduces investment demand for the precious metal and puts pressure on its prices.
2. Rising Crude Oil Prices and Geopolitical Tensions
Increasing tensions in the Middle East, along with a rise in crude oil prices, have raised concerns about global inflation.
Investors and businesses fear that higher inflation could encourage central banks to increase interest rates further. Such expectations have also affected gold prices, as higher interest rates generally make non-interest-bearing assets like gold less attractive.
3. Decline in Physical Gold Demand
Demand for physical gold, including bars, coins and jewellery, has weakened globally compared with the previous year.
Following the exceptional rise in gold prices earlier, many buyers have become cautious about making fresh purchases. This slowdown in physical demand has contributed to the recent price correction.
4. Strengthening of the US Dollar
A stronger US dollar is another important factor behind the decline. Since gold is traded internationally in dollars, an increase in the dollar's value makes the precious metal more expensive for buyers using other currencies.
As a result, international demand can weaken, putting additional pressure on gold prices.
How Will Falling Gold Prices Affect Different Buyers?
The impact of declining gold prices will vary depending on whether people are purchasing jewellery, investing for the long term or trading for short-term gains.
Jewellery Buyers and Wedding Shoppers
People planning to purchase gold jewellery for weddings and festivals could benefit from the recent decline. Lower prices can reduce the overall cost of buying gold, potentially saving buyers thousands of rupees on a 10-gram purchase.
The ongoing wedding season may therefore offer an opportunity for households planning jewellery purchases.
Long-Term Gold Investors
For long-term investors, particularly those investing through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), the current correction could indicate some stabilisation following the earlier sharp rise in gold prices.
Experts suggest that the decline should not automatically be interpreted as a major collapse or a fundamental weakness in the gold market.
Short-Term Traders
Investors seeking quick profits from gold trading may face greater uncertainty. Market volatility is expected to remain a concern, making it difficult to predict when prices will reach their lowest level.
Buying or selling at the wrong time could result in financial losses, particularly for traders attempting to benefit from short-term price movements.
What Do Experts Say About the Gold Market?
Some market experts believe the recent correction has created a favourable opportunity for people looking to purchase gold.
According to their assessment, gold demand generally rises during occasions such as Dhanteras and Diwali. Seasonal buying could help support prices and reduce the possibility of another significant decline.
Experts have also highlighted continued gold purchases by central banks across the world. The trend of increasing gold reserves among central banks is expected to maintain demand in the international market.
Continued buying by central banks could provide support to gold prices at current levels and help prevent a deeper correction.
With gold becoming relatively cheaper after its recent monthly decline, jewellery buyers may find some relief during the wedding season. However, investors and traders are advised to remain mindful of market volatility and changing global economic conditions.
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