Indian Gold Market Sees Signs of Recovery Amid Price Correction
India's gold market is showing signs of recovery after a sharp price correction in June. Domestic gold prices rose nearly 7% to Rs 1,51,744 per 10 grams in the first two weeks of August, while international prices climbed 9% to $4,391 an ounce.
The World Gold Council (WGC) attributes this recovery to lower and more stable prices, which have brought consumers back to the jewellery market. Industry feedback cited by the WGC suggests that deferred purchases are returning, lifting store footfalls and demand beyond essential wedding-related purchases.
Old-gold exchanges are also playing a bigger role in supporting jewellery purchases. Exchanges of old gold for new jewellery have increased market supply and helped keep domestic prices below import parity. Discounts to landed prices, however, have narrowed sharply from around $100 an ounce in mid-May and early June to about $45 an ounce by mid-August.
Investment demand remains supportive despite moderating from exceptionally strong levels seen earlier in the year. Gold ETFs continued to attract money in July with net inflows of Rs 1,560 crore, although this was 55% lower than in June. Holdings increased by 1 tonne to 120 tonnes, while assets under management rose 2% month-on-month to Rs 1.73 lakh crore.