Overview
- Spot gold was trading around $4,394–$4,400 per ounce in mid‑August 2026, leaving the metal range‑bound but volatile.
- A widening bond sell‑off lifted long‑duration U.S. Treasury yields, reducing the appeal of zero‑yield bullion and pressuring prices.
- Geopolitical risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz and recent UAE actions on trade with Iran have kept oil and safe‑haven demand elevated, preventing a steeper drop.
- Indian markets showed mixed signals as MCX October gold futures fell about Rs 544 to Rs 1,55,396 per 10 grams while retail rates reported by the All India Sarafa Association rose roughly Rs 2,000 to about Rs 1,58,800 per 10 grams.
- Institutional flows are a structural support with global gold ETFs adding sizable inflows in July and continued central‑bank buying, and near‑term direction now hinges on the Fed minutes and Kevin Warsh’s Jackson Hole remarks.