How Do Banks Determine Charges Of Gold Loan Per Gram?

Synopsis:

  • Gold Loans use the gold price per gram to determine the loan amount.
  • Gold prices are set daily by the LBMA and vary based on market conditions.
  • Spot prices reflect current market values, while futures prices are agreed upon for future transactions.
  • OTC markets, large banks, and futures exchanges influence gold pricing.
  • Factors like production costs, inflation, and central bank activities drive gold price fluctuations.

Overview

Gold has long been a symbol of wealth and beauty but is also a valuable financial asset. A Gold Loan can be a practical option when you need quick cash for emergencies or liquidity needs. Instead of selling your gold, you can pledge it as collateral to secure a loan from a financial institution. Gold Loans typically come with lower interest rates than personal loans due to the collateral provided. In order to understand how banks determine the amount they will lend against your gold, it's crucial to grasp the concept of gold price per gram and its influencing factors.

Understanding Gold Loan Charges

The amount you can borrow through a Gold Loan largely depends on the gold price per gram, which is influenced by the current market rate of gold. This price is not fixed and fluctuates based on various factors, including market conditions and gold valuation norms.

How is Gold Price Determined?

Daily Gold Pricing

The price of gold is determined daily by key financial institutions. The London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) sets the price twice a day, at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM London time. The prices are quoted in three major currencies: the US Dollar, the Pound Sterling, and the Euro.

Spot Price vs. Futures Price

Gold prices are categorised into two types:

  • Spot Price: This is the current market price at which gold is bought and sold for immediate delivery. It reflects the present value of gold.
  • Futures Price: This price is agreed upon for a transaction that will occur on a future date. It is determined by contracts traded on futures exchanges.

Sources of Gold Prices

OTC Markets

Over-the-counter (OTC) markets are decentralised platforms where securities, including gold, are traded outside formal stock exchanges. Transactions are conducted via phone, fax, and digital means, and prices are determined through bilateral agreements among dealers. This market allows for confidential trades and is less regulated than formal exchanges.

Large Banks and Bullion Traders

Large banks and bullion traders handle substantial volumes of gold, and their trading activities help set spot prices. Their transactions provide a reliable indication of current gold prices due to the scale and frequency of their trades.

Futures Exchanges

Futures prices are set on global exchanges where gold futures contracts are traded. Major exchanges include:

  • TOCOM (Japan)
  • MCX (Mumbai)
  • Shanghai Gold Exchange (China)
  • Istanbul Gold Exchange (Turkey)
  • DGCX (Dubai)
  • COMEX (New York)

Factors Influencing Gold Prices

Several factors drive gold prices, including:

  • Production Costs: Mining and producing gold impacts its market price.
  • Inflation: Global inflation, especially in the US, affects gold prices as investors seek gold as a hedge against inflation.
  • Trade Deficits: Imbalances and deficits in trade, particularly involving the US, can influence gold prices.
  • Central Bank Activities: Actions such as money printing and gold buying/selling by central banks impact gold prices.
  • Real Interest Rates: The difference between real interest rates and inflation affects the demand for gold.
  • Supply and Demand: Gold supply and demand market dynamics drive price fluctuations.

HDFC Bank Gold Loans

At HDFC Bank, we recognise the value of gold both as a personal asset and a financial security. Our Gold Loans are designed to help you efficiently leverage your gold's value. We offer competitive loan amounts starting at ₹25,000 with a swift disbursal time of approximately 45 minutes. The gold price per gram used in our calculations considers the gold's weight, value, and purity to determine the loan amount.

Explore the convenient Gold Loan offered by HDFC Bank and learn more about the application process by clicking right here.

Wondering how to raise money with a Gold Loan? Click here to read more!

*Terms and conditions apply. Gold Loan at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank limited. Loan disbursal is subject to documentation and verification as per Banks requirement.