On April 18, 2025, gold prices in Thailand experienced a notable increase, rising by 100 baht compared to the previous day. At 09:23 AM, the selling price for gold bullion reached 53,250 baht, while the buying price was set at 52,350 baht. According to the Gold Traders Association, the price for 96.5% gold jewelry was 51,407.56 baht for buying and 53,250 baht for selling.
The international gold market also saw fluctuations, with the spot gold price closing at $3,327.50 per ounce. However, it had dropped by $15 from a recent peak where it had exceeded the psychological resistance level of $3,300, reaching an all-time high of $3,357. This decline was attributed to profit-taking by investors and a strengthening dollar, which prompted many to reduce their holdings of gold as a safe-haven asset.
In the wake of these changes, the SPDR Gold Trust sold 4.88 tons of gold, reflecting a shift in market sentiment. Notably, the New York gold market was closed on this day due to Good Friday, limiting trading opportunities.
Further analysis from Hua Seng Heng indicated that the overall trend for gold prices remains positive, especially as global economic uncertainties persist. Investors are closely monitoring developments, particularly regarding trade negotiations between the United States and Japan, which may influence market dynamics. The aim is to reach an agreement before the U.S. imposes a 90-day extension on tariff collections.
The Gold Traders Association provided a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of 09:23 AM on April 18, 2025:
- Gold bullion: Buying price at 52,350 baht, selling price at 52,450 baht.
- Gold jewelry: Buying price at 51,407.56 baht, selling price at 53,250 baht.
- 2 baht gold: Buying price at 21,450 baht, selling price at 21,500 baht.
- 1 baht gold: Buying price at 10,725 baht, selling price at 10,750 baht.
- 1/2 baht gold: Buying price at 5,362.50 baht, selling price at 5,375 baht.
As the day progressed, the domestic gold market continued to show signs of robust demand. By 15:30, several prominent gold brands, including PNJ, DOJI, and SJC, announced significant price adjustments reflecting the market's heating up. These adjustments indicated a growing interest among investors and consumers alike.
In particular, PNJ reported that the buying and selling prices for SJC gold in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi were set at 117.0-120.0 million VND per tael, marking an increase of 1.5 million VND for buying prices and 2.0 million VND for selling prices. This trend was echoed by DOJI Group, which also adjusted its prices upward.
Market experts predict that the international gold price might soon reach $3,500 per ounce, driven by increased demand amidst global economic uncertainties. According to Citi Research, the forecast for gold prices in the second quarter of 2025 has been revised upwards, with expectations that the price will surpass previous estimates due to rising investment interest.
As the world grapples with various economic challenges, including new tax policies and a slowing global economy, many individuals are turning to gold as a secure investment. The demand for gold is expected to rise, especially as Chinese insurance companies are allowed to use part of their funds to purchase gold, potentially creating massive demand equivalent to about a quarter of the total gold bought by central banks each year.
Additionally, the ongoing shortage of gold bullion is putting upward pressure on prices. This situation is compounded by the fact that the supply of gold is not keeping pace with the increasing demand, necessitating higher prices to incentivize gold holders to sell.
By the end of the trading session, the Kitco report indicated that the world gold price had reached $3,326.63 per ounce, translating to approximately 105.25 million VND per tael when converted at the current exchange rate. This price reflects a premium over the domestic gold prices, which are about 14.75 million VND higher than the international market.
In summary, as of April 18, 2025, gold prices showed a strong upward trend, influenced by robust investment demand, tight supply, and global economic policies. Investors and consumers are advised to monitor these developments closely to make informed decisions in this volatile market.
