Gold prices remain elevated as investors continue to seek protection amid geopolitical uncertainty and expectations surrounding US monetary policy. 24K gold was quoted around Rs. 1,63,490 per 10 grams, while silver remained around Rs. 2.45 lakh per kg in the latest reported Indian rates.

The US has intensified its economic campaign against Iran, announcing fresh sanctions and warning countries and businesses that continue dealing with Tehran that they could also face penalties. Washington has described the strategy as an attempt to place severe economic pressure on Iran.

Indian equities are likely to begin Monday with a mildly positive bias, although global markets remain cautious. GIFT Nifty was indicating a gain of around 47 points, while Asian markets were mostly weaker and US futures remained subdued.

Foreign portfolio investors have turned significantly more positive towards Indian equities during August. FPIs have invested approximately Rs. 23,544 cr. so far this month, supported by improving corporate earnings and relative stability in the rupee.

The Indian rupee is expected to open relatively steady on Monday, with strong capital inflows and potential RBI intervention providing support. The rupee closed Friday at around Rs. 95.6950 per US dollar, and market participants expect an opening near Rs. 95.65–95.70.

Gold continues to attract investor attention amid geopolitical uncertainty. On August 24, the reported Indian price of gold was around Rs. 1,62,810 per 10 grams, while investors continued to monitor crude prices, US bond yields and developments in the Iran conflict.

Silver prices remain elevated, with the latest Indian market rate around Rs. 2.60 lakh per kg. Silver has been supported by both precious-metal demand and its industrial applications, particularly in areas linked to electronics and renewable energy.

The US-Iran confrontation is entering another critical phase, with Washington preparing a major new round of sanctions against Tehran. Iran has warned that it could take measures affecting oil exports, raising fresh concerns for global energy markets.

Indian benchmark indices are expected to begin Friday on a mildly positive note, with GIFT Nifty pointing to a higher opening. The Nifty closed at 24,231.85 on Thursday, ending a seven-session losing streak, while the Sensex also recovered after four consecutive sessions of losses.

The unresolved US-Iran conflict continues to dominate global markets, with the war disrupting energy supplies and reducing traffic through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Markets are increasingly concerned that the prolonged standoff could create tighter supplies from major Middle Eastern producers.