National News
Gold price surges past Rs 1 Lakh/ 10 gm
In a landmark moment for the Indian bullion market, gold prices have surged past the Rs 1 lakh mark per 10 grams, reinforcing the precious metal’s status as a safe-haven investment during times of economic uncertainty. On Friday, Mumbai’s renowned Zaveri Bazaar witnessed an unprecedented rise in the price of 24-carat gold, which now stands at Rs 1,01,000 per 10 grams—marking the highest ever recorded in India’s history.
This significant increase is largely attributed to a confluence of international and domestic factors. Market experts suggest that rising global gold prices, coupled with expectations of potential interest rate cuts in the United States and Europe, have played a pivotal role in boosting demand. Additionally, a weakening US dollar and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have further cemented gold’s appeal among investors seeking stability in volatile times.
While this surge may be welcomed by investors, it poses a financial challenge for everyday consumers, especially during the current wedding season. As gold becomes increasingly expensive, middle-class buyers may find it harder to afford new jewellery. In fact, several gold traders have reported a noticeable dip in demand for newly crafted ornaments, with many customers choosing instead to liquidate existing gold assets to take advantage of the high prices.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of gold prices remains uncertain. If global instability continues and investor demand holds strong, experts believe that prices could climb even higher. On the other hand, some analysts foresee a potential cooling-off period, citing the likelihood of profit booking by investors who may now choose to capitalize on the recent surge.
In conclusion, the current rally in gold prices underscores the metal’s enduring significance in global and domestic markets. Whether this trend will persist or see a temporary pullback remains to be seen, but for now, gold continues to shine brightly as both an investment and a symbol of security.
National News
NPCI Defers Rollout Of UPI Merchant Discount Rate Until After Diwali
Given Typical Retail Margins Of 2%–6% On Bullion and Plain Gold Jewellery, Absorbing A 0.4% Fee—Or Up To ₹300 Per Large Transaction—Would Have Directly Eaten Into Festive Profitability. The Deferral Keeps Bottom Lines Protected Through Dhanteras and Diwali.
The National Payments Corporation of India’s (NPCI) UPI and Services Steering Committee has deferred the implementation of Merchant Discount Rates (MDR) on select person-to-merchant (P2M) UPI transactions until immediately after Diwali.
The move aims to protect consumer sentiment and keep operational costs steady for businesses during the peak festive shopping season. A specific implementation date will be announced separately.
Key Highlights
- Festive Relief for Retail: The deferment ensures merchants face no additional payment processing costs during peak festive demand, helping avoid disruptions to consumer spending.
- The Approved MDR Structure:
- Applies only to eligible P2M transactions above Rs 2,000 at a rate of 0.4%.
- Capped at Rs 300 for high-value transactions of Rs 75,000 and above.
- Everyday low-value payments and small merchants remain fully exempt, preserving zero-cost digital transactions for general consumers.
- Timeline Adjustment: Originally notified on September 15 for an October 15 rollout, the framework will now take effect post-Diwali, giving banks, payment aggregators, and merchants additional runway to align their systems and communicate terms clearly.
Jewellery purchase values routinely exceed the Rs 2,000 threshold and frequently touch or surpass the Rs 75,000 cap. Given typical retail margins of 2%–6% on bullion and plain gold jewellery, absorbing a 0.4% fee—or up to Rs 300 per large transaction—would have directly eaten into festive profitability. The deferral keeps bottom lines protected through Dhanteras and Diwali.
Introducing transaction fees just as footfall surges would have forced retailers to decide whether to absorb the cost or pass it on to buyers (via checkout surcharges or selective discounts). Avoiding this choice prevents awkward billing counter negotiations and cart abandonment during rush hours.
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