New Delhi, March 11 Gold prices declined by Rs 853 to Rs 1.62 lakh per 10 grams in futures trading on Wednesday, tracking a bearish sentiment in international markets amid mixed signals surrounding the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
According to the Multi Commodity Exchange, the yellow metal for April delivery depreciated by Rs 853, or 0.52 per cent, to Rs 1,62,450 per 10 grams in a business turnover of 7,529 lots.
Analysts said that recent gains in precious metal prices faded as developments surrounding the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran remained uncertain, keeping investors cautious.
In the international markets, gold futures on the Comex for April delivery slipped by USD 30.15, or 0.58 per cent, to USD 5,211.95 per ounce.
"Part of the gains faded amid conflicting developments surrounding the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran. The evolving geopolitical situation continues to cloud the outlook for Washington's monetary policy, particularly expectations for potential interest rate cuts," Manav Modi, Commodities Analyst, Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd, said.
He noted that traders' positioning also reflected caution as holdings in gold-backed exchange traded funds (ETFs) declined sharply. Total holdings fell by nearly 30 tonnes last week, marking the largest weekly outflow in more than two years.
"Despite the outflows, bullion remained supported by safe-haven demand as markets assessed the potential for disruptions in global energy supplies and the possibility of a resolution to the conflict," Modi added.
According to analysts, mixed signals on the war have resulted in volatile trading conditions. Earlier, President Donald Trump signalled that the conflict could end soon, but continued strikes between the US, Israel, and Iran by early Wednesday indicated little immediate de-escalation, extending the conflict into its 12th consecutive day.
"Investors are closely monitoring the upcoming US inflation data which can provide fresh cues on the Federal Reserve's policy outlook and near-term trajectory for the precious metals," Jigar Trivedi, Senior Research Analyst at IndusInd Securities, said.