The domestic bullion market opened higher on June 18, with gold and silver prices witnessing an uptick across major Indian cities. Market participants tracked developments surrounding the recent US-Iran agreement, which is expected to reduce tensions in the Middle East and improve stability in global energy supplies.

According to market data, the price of 24-carat gold in India stood at ₹1,54,180 per 10 grams, while Silver 999 Fine was priced at ₹2,53,170 per kilogram. Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) gold futures traded near ₹1,53,899 per 10 grams during early trade, while silver futures hovered around ₹2,52,046 per kilogram.

Internationally, spot gold rose nearly 1.5% to around $4,322 per ounce after recovering from losses recorded in the previous trading session. Silver also gained strength in overseas markets, climbing more than 2%, supported by renewed buying interest in precious metals.

Major Cities Record Marginal Variations

Gold rates showed minor differences across key metropolitan centres. In Mumbai, 24-carat gold was quoted at ₹1,53,900 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold traded at ₹1,41,075. The rate for 18-carat gold stood at ₹1,15,425 per 10 grams.

Delhi reported 24-carat gold prices of ₹1,53,630 per 10 grams, with 22-carat gold at ₹1,40,828 and 18-carat gold at ₹1,15,223. Similar trends were observed in Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad, where prices remained close to the national average.

Silver prices also stayed firm, ranging between ₹2.52 lakh and ₹2.53 lakh per kilogram across major cities.

Global Factors Influence Bullion Market

Reports indicate that the US-Iran agreement could help restore normal shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy routes. The development triggered a rally in global equity markets and pushed crude oil prices lower.

However, analysts believe investors continue to maintain exposure to gold as a hedge against inflation, currency fluctuations and broader economic risks. As a result, bullion prices have remained near historic highs despite improving geopolitical conditions.

Market experts note that movements in the US dollar, Federal Reserve policy decisions and global bond yields will continue to influence gold and silver prices in the coming weeks. Any changes in interest rate expectations could impact investment demand for precious metals.