bullion

A recent surge in gold import duty has fueled a wave of smuggling, with illicit gold now available at discounts of up to Rs 10 lakh per kilogram. This creates a significant price disparity with legally imported bullion, mirroring trends seen after a similar duty hike in 2013. Industry experts warn of escalating unofficial imports.

Despite a lower import volume of 721 tonnes compared with the previous year, India's gold import bill rose 24% to a record $71.9 billion in 2025-26.

Gold prices face a mixed outlook this week, influenced by US-Iran peace talks, oil market shifts, and crucial US economic data. Federal Reserve officials' speeches will also guide interest rate expectations, impacting bullion's near-term trajectory. Analysts suggest a sideways to corrective momentum for precious metals, with progress in peace discussions potentially easing safe-haven demand.

Sebi has banned Rajesh Exports chief Rajesh Mehta for allegedly inflating company revenues over several years. The regulator's investigation found significant discrepancies, particularly with its Swiss subsidiary Valcambi SA. Mehta claims a communication gap with Sebi, stating revenues are correct and the business is low-margin.

Gold price prediction today: While gold and silver prices are seeing some weakness, in the domestic market gold has managed to exhibit some resilience, says Vedika Narvekar, Research Analyst - Commodities & Currencies, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers.

India's gold demand has plummeted by nearly 70% following a government increase in import duty from 6% to 15%. This, coupled with rising fuel and food prices, has significantly dampened consumer sentiment and spending on discretionary items like gold.

Persian Gulf tensions pushed crude prices near $100, weakening the rupee and causing the Sensex to plunge over 1,100 points mid-session. Despite initial losses, banking stocks rallied, aiding a partial recovery, while IT stocks crashed due to AI disruption fears. Foreign funds saw significant outflows.

Soaring gold prices are driving a surge in old gold exchanges at jewellery stores, now comprising nearly half of sales for major chains. Consumers are leveraging existing jewellery to fund new purchases, a trend amplified by increased import duties and government calls to curb non-essential buying.

Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) investors who purchased bonds between 2019 and 2021 can now apply for premature redemption in June 2026. The Reserve Bank of India has opened redemption windows for five specific bond tranches, requiring investors to submit requests within strict timelines to avoid rejection.

Gold prices surged on Monday, buoyed by global market optimism stemming from potential US-Iran peace talks. Retail rates in major Indian cities also climbed, with 22K, 24K, and 18K gold seeing gains. Analysts attribute this rise to a weaker US dollar and easing crude oil prices, signaling reduced inflationary fears and supporting precious metal markets.

Gold prices are expected to remain steady this week, influenced by US-Iran talks and upcoming US economic data. Silver, however, may continue to outperform due to geopolitical tensions and high crude oil prices. Investors await signals on the Federal Reserve's next policy move amidst shifting statements from Washington and Tehran.

Reporting income/assets etc. in the ITR should be matched with Annual Information Statement (AIS). As through system checks and reconciliation runs, using technology for ITR processing might trigger even small gaps, errors or incorrect claims and may lead to prompt questions.

Gold price prediction today: Given the geopolitical tensions and a possible change in the US Federal Reserve’s stance, gold prices are likely to see limited upside in the near term, says Vedika Narvekar, Research Analyst - Commodities & Currencies, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers.

Rising silver prices are fueling a surge of impure silver bars and coins in India, prompting calls for mandatory BIS hallmarking and licensing for refiners. Industry experts report widespread use of scrap silver containing prohibited elements, with limited quality testing infrastructure exacerbating concerns. Commodity exchanges are preparing to introduce quality-certified silver bars to standardize supply and enhance market trust.

Gold price prediction today: Despite some correction, gold prices are broadly seeing a bullish rise in prices, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.

Indians are adapting their gold purchases, opting for lighter, more affordable jewellery and exploring alternatives like silver and diamonds. While tradition remains strong, consumers are making conscious choices, balancing emotional value with investment prudence. Experts suggest a diversified portfolio, with gold as a long-term hedge, as the industry navigates changing consumer behavior and economic shifts.