Gold Crashes After Record Highs

Gold

“From glitter to glitch — gold slips as markets shake.”


Gold Price Overview

Gold rates in India have witnessed a sharp correction as of February 2, 2026, triggered by global sell-offs, a stronger US dollar, and post-Union Budget volatility. International spot gold slipped below $4,700 per ounce, falling over 4% in a single session, sending shockwaves across domestic bullion markets.

Current Gold Rates in India

Domestic gold prices cooled significantly from last week’s record highs:

  • 24K Gold: ₹16,057 per gram (₹1,60,570 per 10g)
  • 22K Gold: ₹14,719 per gram
  • 18K Gold: ₹12,043 per gram

In Muzaffarpur, Bihar, gold rates broadly track national averages, ranging between ₹1,60,000–₹1,62,000 per 10 grams for 24K, depending on jeweller margins and making charges.

Meanwhile, MCX April gold futures trade near ₹1,50,849 per 10g, down nearly 1% intraday.

Gold peaked at ₹17,885 per gram on January 29 before undergoing a steep correction. Within just three trading sessions, prices plunged over 10%, erasing nearly ₹1,827 per gram on a weekly basis.

On Budget day, MCX gold collapsed sharply from ₹1,46,800 to ₹1,36,185 per 10g. Silver suffered even deeper cuts, falling 5–9% to around ₹2,51,294 per kg on MCX.

City-wise Gold & Silver Prices

City 24K Gold (₹/10g) Silver (₹/kg)
Mumbai 1,60,720 3,66,000
Delhi 1,60,860 3,67,000
Chennai 1,62,660 3,34,000
Bengaluru 1,60,690 3,61,000
Kolkata 1,60,700 3,62,000

Why Gold Prices Are Falling

Several powerful forces are weighing on bullion prices:

  • Stronger US Dollar: Markets reacted to President Trump’s nomination of hawkish economist Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair.
  • Margin Pressure: CME raised gold margins by 33%, prompting MCX to hike margins to 20%, forcing leveraged selling.
  • Budget Impact: Post-Union Budget 2026 uncertainty triggered profit-booking across commodities.
  • Global Correction: Spot gold is down nearly 12% from highs near $5,600/oz.

According to Citi, gold may test levels below $4,724 if dollar strength continues, though geopolitical risks and rising US debt could limit deeper downside.

Outlook & Investor Strategy

Despite sharp futures-led volatility, retail gold prices in cities like Muzaffarpur remain relatively stable — offering potential dip-buying opportunities for long-term investors.

Analysts see key support near ₹1,40,000 per 10g on MCX. Any renewed global uncertainty or softer Fed signals could spark a rebound. For now, investors should closely track Federal Reserve cues, dollar movement, and geopolitical headlines.

 

Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by city and jeweller. Always confirm before buying or investing.

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