Dubai gold prices rise as soaring oil prices fuel inflation fears

Dubai's gold prices surged on Thursday as soaring oil prices heightened inflation fears, with investors uncertain about potential interest rate hikes from the US Federal Reserve. The price of 24-karat gold in Dubai increased to Dh499.75 per gram, up from Dh492.75, while 22K gold rose to Dh462.75 from Dh456.25. International gold prices were trading around $4,141.60 an ounce, up 1.34%, as a weaker US dollar and increased demand for safe-haven assets supported the precious metal.

For UAE consumers, a 10-gram purchase of 24K gold would cost around Dh4,997.50 before additional charges. Oil prices drove inflation in the US in September, fueling concerns that persistent energy inflation could make it difficult for the Federal Reserve to lower borrowing costs. Gold typically benefits from inflation concerns as investors view it as a store of value.

However, inflation can complicate this relationship when central banks raise interest rates. Market analysts noted that the key level for gold remained just below $4,000 an ounce, with stronger economic data potentially increasing expectations of a more urgent rate hike. Fed officials indicated that further rate increases might be needed, but they also expressed a wait-and-see attitude, waiting for additional economic data.

The US dollar weakened slightly on Thursday, supporting gold prices, as bullion is priced in US dollars. Dubai shoppers saw gold prices near the Dh500-per-gram mark, but the final price paid by jewelry buyers would likely be higher due to making charges and other retailer fees. Markets now anticipate US Producer Price Index (PPI) and retail sales data for clues about interest rate directions, with gold prices expected to remain volatile in the near term due to competing factors such as energy prices, geopolitical tensions, and financial-market volatility.