Gold price increases to Rs240,000 per tola amid political turmoil and IMF loan delay

On Wednesday, the price of gold surged massively in Pakistan due to political turmoil following the arrest of the former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman, Imran Khan.

According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association (APSGJA), the price of gold (24 carats) rose by Rs9,900 per tola and Rs8,487 per 10 grams to reach Rs240,000 and Rs205,761, respectively.

However, there was no increase in the international market price, which remained at $2,031 per ounce. The primary reason for the increase in gold’s price is the latest political storm that has caused violent protests across the country and led to the army’s deployment in three provinces.

People in Pakistan are purchasing gold to protect themselves against inflation and currency depreciation, as the economy is already in dire straits. Furthermore, the delay in the revival of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, which negatively impacts the currency market, is bolstering the demand for gold.

According to Brecorder, the rupee also fell to a fresh low of Rs290.22 against the US dollar in the interbank market on Wednesday, after losing Rs5.38 or 1.89 per cent. The APSGJA also reported that the price of silver reached a new high, rising by Rs100 per tola and Rs85.75 per 10 grams to settle at Rs3,100 and Rs2,657.7, respectively.