Gold prices surged to record levels as global uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and central bank buying boosted safe-haven demand, the Economic Survey noted. The report said gold’s outlook in 2026 remains supportive amid elevated inflation risks, currency volatility, and rising global debt. However, returns may moderate as financial conditions stabilise, with price movements driven by interest rates, dollar trends, and investor allocation behaviour.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has resumed subscriptions in three international schemes after receiving additional overseas investment headroom from regulators. The fund house has capped fresh investments at ₹2 lakh per PAN to manage inflows prudently. The move gives investors renewed access to global equities while ensuring compliance with limits and balancing demand, risk management, and market volatility amid uncertain global cues today for long-term portfolios.