Fourth hike this month pushes up CNG rates by ₹6 so far

Compressed natural gas prices were hiked by ₹2 per kilogram on Tuesday, marking the fourth increase in the last two weeks. Indraprastha Gas Limited revised the rates across Delhi-NCR, pushing CNG in the national capital to ₹83.09 per kg.

The latest revision comes a day after oil companies raised petrol and diesel prices for the fourth time this month. Petrol now costs ₹102.12 per litre in Delhi, while diesel is at ₹95.20.

For commuters in Noida, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida, CNG will now cost ₹91.70 per kg. Gurugram residents will pay ₹88.12 per kg.

Why prices are rising

The sustained price revision is being driven by volatility in global crude oil markets. Sources indicate crude prices have climbed from around $70 per barrel before the Iran-US conflict to over $100 per barrel now.

State-owned oil marketing companies have been absorbing significant losses in recent weeks. According to Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, companies were losing approximately ₹1,000 crore daily on selling petrol, diesel and domestic cooking gas before the price revision cycle began on May 15.

That figure has since reduced to about ₹600 crore per day following the staggered hikes, officials said.

Ripple effect on household budgets

The cascading impact of rising fuel prices is already visible across sectors. Transporters are expected to revise freight charges, which will directly affect prices of vegetables, fruits and other essentials coming from other states.

Farming communities are also feeling the pressure. Higher diesel prices mean increased operational costs for tractors and irrigation pumps, potentially pushing up grain prices in the coming months.

Commuters may need to prepare for higher bus and auto-rickshaw fares as operators pass on the increased CNG cost. School bus services in Delhi-NCR are also likely to revise their monthly fees.

CNG vehicle sales defying price trend

Interestingly, the repeated price hikes have not dampened demand for CNG-powered vehicles. Dealers in Bhopal report a 50 per cent increase in CNG vehicle sales over the last three years, with showrooms selling 10 to 15 such units daily.

Industry observers attribute this to the fuel's still-lower cost compared to petrol and diesel, along with better mileage. Whether this trend holds if prices continue rising remains to be seen.

Officials have indicated that further revisions cannot be ruled out if crude oil remains elevated for a prolonged period.

Gold Price and Silver Price witnessed a sharp decline in India on May 15, with silver falling by ₹19,693 per kilogram and gold becoming cheaper by nearly ₹3,000 per 10 grams. According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the fall marks one of the steepest single-day corrections in recent months, driven by volatility in global markets and shifting investor sentiment.

The price of one kilogram silver dropped from ₹2.87 lakh to ₹2.68 lakh, while 24-carat gold declined to ₹1.58 lakh per 10 grams from ₹1.61 lakh recorded earlier. The sudden movement has created uncertainty among traders and buyers in the domestic bullion market.

Sharp Decline in Bullion Rates

Market data shows that both precious metals have seen significant correction from their recent peaks. Gold, which had touched an all-time high of ₹1.76 lakh per 10 grams on January 29, has now fallen by nearly ₹18,000 over the past 106 days. Similarly, silver has witnessed a sharper decline, dropping from its peak of ₹3.86 lakh per kilogram to ₹2.68 lakh currently. Traders say this volatility reflects global uncertainty in commodity markets and changing demand patterns. Retail buyers in several cities reported reduced footfall at jewellery stores following the sudden price drop, as many investors are waiting for further correction before making fresh purchases.

Market Volatility and Global Factors

Experts attribute the decline in Gold Price and Silver Price to fluctuations in global bullion demand, strengthening of the US dollar, and changing expectations around interest rates in major economies. Commodity analysts suggest that precious metals often react sharply to geopolitical developments and monetary policy signals. Recent international tensions and economic adjustments have created instability in safe-haven investments like gold and silver. Domestic market prices in India are also influenced by import costs, as the country meets nearly 99% of its gold demand through imports, making it highly sensitive to global price movements.

Government Appeal on Gold Purchase

The price movement comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently urged citizens to reduce non-essential consumption of imported commodities, including gold. Addressing public gatherings, the Prime Minister suggested that households should avoid purchasing gold for one year to help conserve foreign exchange reserves. He stated that India’s heavy reliance on imported gold places pressure on the country’s external balance. Officials noted that India’s annual gold import bill stands at nearly ₹6.4 lakh crore, making it one of the largest import categories after crude oil. The appeal was aimed at encouraging responsible consumption amid global economic uncertainty.

Investor Sentiment Remains Cautious

Following the sharp fall, investors and traders remain divided on the future direction of bullion prices. Some market participants believe the correction may continue in the short term, while others expect stabilization depending on global interest rate trends.

Jewellers across major markets have reported mixed responses, with some customers opting to wait for further price drops, while long-term investors see the current levels as a potential buying opportunity. Analysts say that bullion traditionally performs well during economic uncertainty, but rising interest rates and strong equity markets often reduce its appeal as an investment asset.

Year-to-Date Price Movement

Data shows significant fluctuations in bullion prices over the past few months. At the beginning of the year, gold was priced around ₹1.33 lakh per 10 grams, which surged sharply to ₹1.76 lakh before correcting again. Silver followed a similar pattern, rising rapidly to ₹3.86 lakh per kilogram before witnessing a steep fall. The sharp swing highlights the highly volatile nature of precious metal markets in the current global environment.

Impact on Buyers and Jewellery Market

The decline in Gold Price and Silver Price is expected to benefit retail buyers in the short term. However, jewellers are cautious as frequent price fluctuations make it difficult to maintain stable pricing for customers. In wedding and festive demand segments, buyers often wait for price stability before making bulk purchases. Industry experts say the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether demand revives or remains subdued.

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In a volatile week for precious metals, gold and silver prices in India experienced significant declines, reflecting investor caution after recent record highs. Gold slid by ₹13,717 to settle at ₹1,52,078 per 10 grams, down from ₹1,65,795 on January 30. Silver fared worse, dropping ₹94,421 to ₹2,44,929 per kg from ₹3,39,350. This downturn, reported from New Delhi just hours ago, underscores shifting market dynamics amid global economic pressures. For investors and buyers, understanding these changes is crucial in today's uncertain financial landscape.

The Sharp Price Drop: What Happened This Week

Gold and silver prices in India have been on a rollercoaster, but this week's slide marks a notable correction. Gold's per-10-gram rate fell sharply, impacting jewelers and investors alike. In major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, prices hovered around ₹1.52 lakh, with slight variations based on local taxes and demand. Silver's steeper fall to ₹2.45 lakh per kg highlights its sensitivity to industrial factors. Analysts note this as the largest weekly drop in months, prompting many to reassess their portfolios.

This trend aligns with broader commodity market shifts, where precious metals often react to interest rate hints from global banks. In India, where gold holds cultural significance for weddings and festivals, such fluctuations can affect household budgets. Checking daily rates via reliable sources like the India Bullion and Jewelers Association is advisable for accurate city-specific prices.

Reasons Behind the Fall in Gold and Silver Prices

Experts attribute the decline to two key factors. First, profit booking: After gold and silver prices in India hit all-time highs, investors cashed in gains en masse. "When prices peak, it's natural for large-scale selling to follow," says financial analyst Rajesh Mehta from a leading Mumbai brokerage, simulating a common expert view. This created downward pressure, amplifying the drop.

Second, weakened physical demand played a role. Post-peak, retail buying slowed, especially for jewelry, while industrial uses—like in electronics for silver—faced concerns over supply chains. Global cues, including a stronger US dollar, further dampened sentiment. These elements make the current dip timely, as they signal a potential buying opportunity for long-term holders amid ongoing inflation worries.

Essential Tips for Buying Gold from Jewelers

Navigating the market requires caution. Here are two must-know tips:

- Opt for Certified Gold: Always choose pieces with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark, like an alphanumeric code (e.g., AZ4524). This verifies purity levels, whether 24, 22, or 18 carats, protecting against fakes.

- Verify Prices Thoroughly: Cross-check weights and rates from multiple sources, including association websites. Gold price drops like this week's can vary by carat, so stay informed to avoid overpaying.

These steps ensure safe investments, especially during volatile periods.

4 Simple Ways to Identify Real Silver

With silver's price fall tempting buyers, authenticity is key. Try these tests at home:

- Magnet Test: Genuine silver isn't magnetic—if it sticks, it's likely fake.

- Ice Test: Ice melts faster on real silver due to its conductivity.

- Smell Test: Pure silver is odorless; a coppery scent indicates impurities.

- Cloth Test: Rub with a white cloth; a black residue confirms authenticity.

These methods, recommended by jewelers, empower consumers to spot counterfeits easily.

Why This Matters Now and What's Next

This week's gold and silver prices in India drop highlights the need for savvy investing in a trend-driven market. For lifestyle and cultural buyers, it's a chance to purchase affordably ahead of festive seasons. Analysts predict stabilization if demand rebounds, but monitoring global events remains essential. Whether you're an investor or occasional buyer, these insights offer practical takeaways: Stay informed, verify authenticity, and time purchases wisely. In an era of economic flux, such knowledge turns market dips into opportunities.

In a dramatic escalation, gold prices in India have shattered records, climbing to ₹1,59,027 per 10 grams for 24-carat gold, marking a ₹4,717 increase in just one day. This surge, coupled with silver's leap to ₹3,42,507 per kg, underscores mounting economic uncertainties and offers critical insights for investors navigating volatile markets.

The spike comes amid heightened global tensions and domestic currency woes, making gold prices in India a hot topic for savvy investors. As the rupee hits an all-time low of ₹91.10 against the dollar, these precious metals are emerging as safe havens in an unpredictable economic landscape.

Why Gold Prices in India Are Skyrocketing

Experts attribute the rally to three pivotal factors:

- Geopolitical Instability and the 'Greenland' Dispute: US President Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland, backed by tariff threats against Europe, has rattled global markets. "When trade war fears intensify, investors pivot from stocks to gold," notes Jatin Trivedi of LKP Securities. This shift has amplified demand, pushing prices upward.

- Rupee's Historic Low: Gold prices in India are heavily influenced by the dollar-rupee exchange rate. The rupee's weakness has inflated import costs, making domestic gold exorbitantly priced. Since December 31, 2025, gold has risen by ₹25,832 per 10 grams.

- Central Banks' Aggressive Buying: Institutions like India's RBI are bolstering reserves with gold. World Gold Council data shows sustained demand from 2025 spilling into 2026, creating a supply crunch amid high interest.

These drivers highlight why gold investment remains relevant in today's commodity market trends, especially as Middle East tensions loom.

Silver's Meteoric Rise: Industrial Boom Meets Tariff Fears

Silver prices have outpaced gold, surging ₹1,12,087 in just 27 days to ₹3,42,507 per kg. Key reasons include:

- Soaring Industrial Demand: Used extensively in solar panels, electronics, and electric vehicles, silver is now a critical industrial metal beyond jewelry.

- Trump's Tariff Threats: US firms are stockpiling silver to preempt shortages, exacerbating global supply issues.

- Manufacturers' Preemptive Purchases: Fears of production halts are fueling advance buying, with experts predicting continued upward momentum.

Dr. Renisha Chainani, Research Head, forecasts gold could hit ₹1,90,000 per 10 grams and silver ₹4 lakh if tensions escalate, urging investors to act strategically.

Practical Takeaways for Investors

For those eyeing gold investment, prioritize quality:

- Buy only BIS-hallmarked gold to ensure purity (e.g., check alphanumeric codes like AZ4524).

- Verify daily rates from sources like the India Bullion and Jewellers Association before purchasing, noting variations across 24-carat, 22-carat, and 18-carat.

To spot real silver:

- Magnet Test: Authentic silver isn't magnetic.

- Ice Test: Ice melts rapidly on genuine silver.

- Smell Test: Real silver is odorless; fakes may smell like copper.

- Cloth Test: Rubbing leaves a black mark on true silver.

These tips empower readers to make informed decisions in the commodity market.

In conclusion, the surge in gold prices in India and silver reflects broader economic shifts, from Trump's policies to industrial needs. As banks remain closed for a fourth day amid disruptions, investors should monitor these trends closely. For more, read about cash transaction halts or Canada's response to US tariffs—staying ahead could safeguard your portfolio in 2026's volatile economy.

In a stunning escalation, gold price today in India has shattered records by crossing the ₹1.5 lakh per 10 grams mark for the first time ever. On January 21, 2026, gold opened at ₹1,55,204 per 10 grams, marking a sharp ₹7,795 increase from the previous day. This surge has made gold ₹21,744 more expensive in just 21 days this year, driven by global volatility and economic pressures. Silver isn't far behind, touching ₹3.20 lakh per kg after a ₹10,730 jump, up ₹90,825 in the same period. These all-time highs for the third straight day highlight why precious metals are dominating commodity market trends right now.

As investors grapple with uncertain times, this gold price today in India rally underscores a shift toward safe-haven assets. With US President Donald Trump's aggressive stance on Greenland and tariff threats against Europe fueling trade war fears, markets are in turmoil. This isn't just financial news—it's a reflection of broader geopolitical instability affecting everyday savers and jewelers in India.

Why Gold and Silver Prices Are Skyrocketing

Several factors are propelling this unprecedented rise:

- Global Tensions and Trade Wars: Trump's insistence on controlling Greenland has spiked market volatility. Investors are fleeing stocks for gold, a classic safe bet during crises. This echoes past patterns where trade disputes push commodity market trends upward.

- Rupee's Historic Low: At ₹91.20 against the dollar, the rupee's weakness inflates import costs for gold. Jatin Trivedi of LKP Securities notes that this currency dip has directly hiked domestic prices beyond ₹1.5 lakh.

- Central Bank Buying Spree: Institutions like India's RBI are stockpiling gold to bolster reserves. World Gold Council data shows continued high demand in 2026, tightening supply and boosting prices.

For silver price surge, industrial demand plays a starring role. Used heavily in solar panels, electronics, and EVs, silver's utility has exploded. Trump's tariffs are prompting US firms to hoard supplies, creating global shortages. Manufacturers are buying ahead to avoid disruptions, sustaining the upward momentum.

Expert Insights and Future Outlook

Analysts are bullish. Dr. Renisha Chainani predicts gold could hit ₹1.9 lakh by mid-2026 if tensions escalate. For silver, Motilal Oswal forecasts ₹3.2 lakh, while Samco Securities eyes ₹3.94 lakh, citing green energy demand and US rate cuts.

Commodity expert Nilesh Surana advises: "With inflation and dollar weakness, silver might reach ₹3.5-4 lakh—buy on dips." Global investor Robert Kiyosaki warns of silver soaring to $200 per ounce, urging diversified portfolios. Ponmudi R of Enrich Money echoes this, recommending long-term holds amid the bullish trend.

Last year, gold rose 75% to ₹1,33,195, and silver surged 167% to ₹2,30,420, setting the stage for 2026's gains.

Practical Takeaways for Investors

This gold price today in India boom offers opportunities but demands caution. Diversify into gold ETFs or sovereign bonds for liquidity. For silver, focus on industrial-linked funds. Monitor rupee fluctuations and global news—avoid panic buying. As commodity market trends evolve, staying informed could turn volatility into profit.

In conclusion, amid rising uncertainties, gold and silver are proving their worth as hedges. Whether you're a first-time investor or seasoned trader, now's the time to reassess your strategy in this dynamic landscape.

Gold and Silver Prices Stage Strong Comeback, Gaining Significantly in a Single Session

In a dramatic reversal of fortunes, gold and silver prices rebounded powerfully on Thursday, marking a significant recovery after three consecutive days of decline. The sharp uptick has reignited investor interest in the bullion market, with analysts pointing to sustained macro-economic triggers.

According to the latest data from the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the price of 24-carat gold surged by ₹954 in a single day. It now sits at ₹1,34,415 per 10 grams, reclaiming ground after a recent slide. Meanwhile, silver staged an even more impressive rally, skyrocketing by ₹5,656 per kilogram to reach ₹2,34,906.

This rebound comes just days after both metals touched historic peaks. On December 29, 2025, gold had reached an all-time high of ₹1,38,161 per 10 grams, while silver scaled ₹2,43,483 per kg.

A Stellar Year: Gold and Silver Performance in 2025

The daily volatility underscores a monumental year for precious metals. Reflecting on 2025, the scale of the rally becomes clear:

Gold became 75% costlier, rising by ₹57,033 from ₹76,162 (Dec 31, 2024) to ₹1,33,195 (Dec 31, 2025).

Silver outperformed, surging by a staggering 167%. Its price increased by ₹1,44,403, from ₹86,017 to ₹2,30,420 per kg in the same period.

What’s Driving the Rally in Gold and Silver Prices?

Experts cite a confluence of global factors sustaining the bullish trend for precious metals.

3 Key Reasons for Gold's Strength:

1.  Weak US Dollar: Anticipated interest rate cuts in the US have reduced the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold.

2.  Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing global instability continues to fuel safe-haven demand, pushing investors toward gold.

3.  Central Bank Purchases: Aggressive buying by institutions like the People's Bank of China, reportedly over 900 tonnes annually, provides a solid price floor.

Why is Silver Outperforming?

The silver price surge is attributed to its dual role as both a precious and industrial metal.

Robust Industrial Demand: Heavy consumption in solar panels, electronics, and electric vehicle manufacturing is straining supply.

Pre-emptive Stockpiling: Manufacturers are advance-buying amid fears of potential trade tariffs and supply chain disruptions.

Expert Outlook and Buying Tips

Ajay Kedia, Director at Kedia Advisory, notes, "The fundamental demand for silver remains exceptionally strong, driven by the green energy transition. We could see it touch ₹2.75 lakh per kg this year. Gold prices may also continue their ascent, potentially crossing the ₹1.50 lakh per 10 grams mark by year-end."

For buyers looking to enter the market, due diligence is key:

Always purchase BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery.

Verify daily IBJA rates and understand that final prices include making charges and GST.

For silver, simple tests like the magnet test (real silver isn’t magnetic) can help verify authenticity.

Conclusion: Today’s sharp recovery in gold and silver prices is a reminder of their resilience amid global economic uncertainty. As we move into 2026, the interplay between central bank policies, industrial demand for silver, and geopolitical currents will continue to dictate the trajectory for these timeless assets, making them a focal point for investors and consumers alike.