Gold continues to hold its place as India’s most trusted asset, but its soaring price has now become a cause for concern. With both gold and silver touching record highs this year, the middle class is feeling the strain.
As 2026 approaches, speculation is intensifying over how much further prices may rise. The World Gold Council’s latest assessment offers a clearer picture, and a fresh set of worries for consumers.
Gold prices have increased by nearly 53% in 2025. In this context, the World Gold Council (WGC) has estimated that prices may rise by a further 15-30% in 2026. This means that families planning weddings next year, or those intending to purchase jewellery, should prepare for higher costs. However, the WGC has also noted that if the US economy strengthens, gold prices could decrease by 5-20%. Notably, gold was the highest-yielding asset in 2025.
So, why might gold become even more expensive in 2026? According to the WGC, three key factors could push prices upward: increasing geopolitical tensions worldwide, lower interest rates in the United States, and investors seeking safer assets. If these conditions persist, gold could see a further rise of 15-30% from current levels.
As a result, families with wedding plans next year may need to set aside a larger budget for jewellery. Likewise, those already considering a purchase should not delay, as earlier buyers stand to benefit. Anyone investing in gold for their children’s future or long-term savings would be wise to plan ahead.
At the same time, the WGC has issued another projection: prices could also fall by 5-20%. This may offer some relief to those preparing for weddings. If the US economy gains momentum in 2026, strengthening the dollar and pushing up US bond yields, gold prices may decline. Under such circumstances, investors may shift towards equities and other high-risk assets, reducing gold demand.
But will gold prices fall completely? No. Each time prices dip, Indian consumers, Asian jewellers, long-term investors, and others tend to increase their purchases. For this reason, the WGC believes gold prices will not crash. Overall, the Council expects gold prices to fluctuate throughout 2026, and therefore suggests that purchasing gold in instalments is a prudent approach.