Gold Surges to Historic High of Rs506,362 Per Tola Amid Global Rally

Jan 22, 2026 | Economy

KARACHI: Gold prices in Pakistan shattered records on Wednesday, climbing to an all-time high of Rs506,362 per tola — a staggering Rs12,700 jump from the previous day — as international bullion soared $127 to $4,840 per ounce, driven by safe-haven demand amid escalating geopolitical uncertainties.
The sharp rally, fueled by global tensions including U.S.-Europe friction over Greenland and broader trade war concerns, has placed immense pressure on domestic buyers during the peak wedding season while attracting strong investor interest nationwide.

Key Highlights

  • Domestic 24-karat gold per tola: Rs506,362 (up Rs12,700), per 10 grams: Rs434,123 (up Rs10,888), per APSGJA rates.
  • International gold: $4,840 per ounce (up $127), marking a fresh peak amid safe-haven flows.
  • Year-to-date surge: From Jan 1 rates (Rs273,600 per tola at $2,624/oz), prices have risen Rs232,762 per tola and $2,216 per ounce globally.
  • Silver: Rs9,933 per tola (up Rs64) and Rs8,515 per 10 grams (up Rs54), with market shortages pushing street prices to Rs13,500–14,500 due to high demand and speculation.
  • Jewellery sales: Down 70–80% as buyers shy away, though investors dominate buying by converting dollars to gold.
  • Market note: Jewellers offering Rs503,000–505,500 per tola, below official APSGJA rate, reflecting supply-demand dynamics.

APSGJA President Qasim Shikarpuri highlighted that central banks worldwide and local investors are aggressively accumulating gold, with no shortages despite the frenzy. He noted Pakistan’s rates remain competitive, trading under Dubai levels by around Rs25,000 per tola after premiums.

Impact on Pakistani Households and Economy

The relentless climb adds strain for families planning weddings or traditional gold purchases, where the yellow metal holds deep cultural value. Yet, for investors, gold continues to outperform other assets like stocks, serving as a reliable hedge against inflation, currency fluctuations, and global instability. This trend reinforces Pakistan’s position in the precious metals market, where prudent savers increasingly turn to bullion for wealth preservation.

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Silver’s Parallel Surge

While gold steals headlines, silver’s rise to record territory reflects similar investor enthusiasm, compounded by physical shortages in local and regional markets. Speculation and industrial demand keep premiums elevated, making it another attractive option for those diversifying amid uncertainty.As global factors — from geopolitical risks to central bank buying — sustain the momentum, Pakistan’s bullion market remains vibrant. Investors stay watchful, but the message is clear: in turbulent times, gold’s enduring appeal as a safe haven shines brighter than ever for the nation.

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