India gold defies global slide, jumps 4.1% in May as old-gold exchange surges 60%

WGC data shows Indian gold prices rose 4.1% in May even as global prices fell 1.4%, lifted by rupee weakness and geopolitical risk. YTD returns hit 17.6% with prices near USD 4,546/oz. Jewellery retailers flag a near-60% YoY spike in old-gold exchange as buyers defer fresh purchases following PM Modi's nudge.

— Source publishedFri, 5 Jun, 2026, 07:54 IST·First seen Fri, 5 Jun, 2026, 08:06 IST·Source ET Small Business

What happened

World Gold Council · India gold prices rose 4.1% in May versus a 1.4% global decline, per WGC, driven by geopolitical tensions and currency weakness. PM Modi

Key facts

  • 4.1% India gold price rise in May
  • 1.4% global gold decline
  • USD 4,546/oz
  • 17.6% YTD return
  • 60% YoY rise in old gold exchange

Why this matters

The exchange-led demand pattern favors scaled players with refining capability and hallmarking trust, opening tuck-in opportunities among regional jewellers lacking integrated old-gold processing infrastructure.