Gold loses Rs3,400/tola
Gold prices in Pakistan slipped on Wednesday, mirroring a decline in international markets, as the precious metal continued to trade within a narrow range amid mixed market signals. In the domestic market, gold dropped by Rs3,400 per tola to settle at Rs345,800, while the 10-gram rate fell by Rs2,915 to Rs296,467, according to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA).
Internationally, gold prices also retreated, with the rate falling by $34 to $3,276 per ounce (inclusive of a $20 premium). Silver prices in Pakistan were not spared either, slipping by Rs70 per tola to Rs3,427.
Analysts say gold remains range-bound due to conflicting forces in play. "Gold is currently oscillating between strong support at the $3,26070 zone and resistance around $3,360-80," said Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities. "The market lacks momentum and is stuck in this band. A breakout on either side could trigger decisive movement."
He pointed out that escalating geopolitical tensionssuch as developments in the US-China trade war or any worsening of India-Pakistan relationscould push prices higher. Conversely, signs of de-escalation or trade resolution could exert downward pressure.
Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) raised a total of Rs882.66 billion through two auctions held on April 30, 2025.
In the Pakistan Investment Bond - Floating Rate (PFL) Semi-Annual Auction, SBP accepted bids worth Rs320.66 billion, with Rs93.05 billion raised for 5-year bonds and Rs227.61 billion for 10-year bonds. No bids were accepted for the 2-year tenor. For the Market Treasury Bills (MTBs) Auction, SBP raised Rs562 billion across four tenors: Rs65.18 billion for 1-month, Rs151.66 billion for 3-month, Rs99.42 billion for 6-month, and Rs245.74 billion for 12-month bills.
Combined, these auctions successfully mobilised Rs882.66 billion, reflecting strong investor participation in government debt instruments. The Pakistani rupee recorded a slight gain against the US dollar on Wednesday, rising by 0.02% in the interbank market.
By the end of the trading session, the rupee closed up 5 paisa settling at 280.97 against the dollar, compared to 281.02 on Tuesday.
Globally, the US dollar remained stable during the day but was on track for its worst monthly performance since November 2022, as unpredictable trade policies under President Donald Trump created pressure on the greenback while benefiting currencies like the euro, yen, and Swiss franc.
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