Gold surged past $4,840 and silver crossed $80 as precious metals posted sharp gains driven by a weakening dollar and easing Iran-related geopolitical risk. The move came on hopes of renewed US-Iran dialogue, which simultaneously pulled crude oil sharply lower as supply-disruption fears receded. The rupee, however, remained under pressure despite the broader dollar softness, suggesting localized currency stress independent of the metals rally. The dollar's decline reduced the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold and silver, a well-established transmission mechanism that amplifies metals demand during periods of currency weakness. Traders will now watch whether US-Iran talks produce a formal framework, which could further suppress oil prices and redirect capital flows. Silver's move above $80 is notable given its dual role as both a monetary hedge and an industrial input, making it sensitive to shifts in both risk appetite and manufacturing demand. The next directional catalyst will likely be Fed commentary on rate trajectory and any concrete diplomatic developments on the Iran front.
The Indian government has launched an OFS to sell up to 6.5% of its LIC stake, opening for non-retail investors on August 4, 2026, at a floor price of Rs 382 per share, about 11% below Monday's close. The discounted offering is likely to pressure LIC shares in the near term as supply increases sharply.
More than a dozen major Indian companies including Bharti Airtel, ONGC, Pidilite, Nykaa, DLF, and Ather Energy report April-June 2026 earnings on August 4. Results span telecom, energy, consumer goods, real estate, and EV sectors, giving markets a broad read on corporate health mid-earnings season.
Amazon shares hit a new all-time high Monday, pushing its market cap above $3 trillion following a sustained post-earnings rally. The milestone places Amazon among the very few companies globally to reach this valuation, with investor focus on AWS and advertising growth driving the move.
Sensex Gains 500 Points as Oil Falls on Iran Talks
The Sensex rose around 500 points and the Nifty crossed 24,500 on Monday after Donald Trump announced talks with Iran, pushing oil prices lower. IndiGo, ITC, FMCG, and metals led the gains as cheaper crude eased cost and inflation concerns.