The domestic bullion market experienced a significant downturn on May 18, 2026, as both gold and silver prices tumbled sharply. Following a volatile trading week driven by macroeconomic factors and changing import regulations, prices for the precious metals dipped significantly on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) and in retail markets across major Indian cities.

Investors and retail buyers looking to purchase jewelry or digital gold are keeping a close eye on the markets as prices hit notable near-term lows.

Why are Gold and Silver Prices Falling?

The sharp dip in bullion rates is primarily attributed to a combination of international and domestic pressures:

• Rising Crude Oil Prices & Inflation: Geopolitical tensions have pushed Brent crude oil prices higher, hitting over $111 per barrel. This has sparked deep concerns regarding global inflation and prompted fears of tighter monetary policies or delayed interest rate cuts by central banks like the US Federal Reserve. High bond yields and a strong US Dollar typically reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold.

• Government Policy Shifts: Domestically, the Indian government's recent decision to tighten import regulations and place restrictions on certain forms of silver imports has induced profit-booking. Furthermore, appeals to curb unnecessary physical gold purchases to protect foreign exchange reserves have cooled down immediate domestic retail momentum.

Today’s Gold and Silver Rates on MCX

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), the impact of the correction was clear during the morning sessions:

• Gold Futures: June delivery contracts dipped by roughly ₹1,000 (0.63%), hitting an intraday low near ₹1,57,547 per 10 grams.

• Silver Futures: July delivery contracts saw a steeper decline, sliding by over ₹4,400 to ₹5,600 to trade around ₹2,66,243 per kilogram.

City-Wise Retail Bullion Rates (May 18, 2026)

Retail prices vary across Indian cities due to local market demand, state octroi, and varying jewelry making charges. Below are the approximate retail prices for 24-karat gold, 22-karat gold (per 10 grams), and silver (per kilogram) across major hubs:

Market Outlook for Buyers and Investors

Market analysts advise a cautious approach before initiating massive fresh long positions. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting minutes scheduled for later this week are expected to provide clearer direction on global interest rate pathways, which will heavily impact how quickly precious metals can recover from this correction.