Karachi – Gold prices in Pakistan recorded a sharp increase on Monday, mirroring gains in the international market and reversing the weekend’s downward trend.
According to figures released by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of 24-karat gold surged by Rs1,500 per tola, reaching Rs357,700. Similarly, 10 grams of 24-karat gold climbed by Rs1,286 to Rs306,670. In the case of 22-karat gold, 10 grams rose by Rs1,179 to settle at Rs281,124.
The rise comes even as the Pakistani rupee showed signs of stability against the US dollar. Analysts say international market sentiment remains the driving force behind local bullion rates, outweighing minor currency fluctuations. Globally, gold prices advanced by $15 to $3,350 per ounce, a move that strengthened bullish sentiment among domestic investors.
Despite the rupee appreciating slightly by 0.01% in the interbank market to close at Rs282.02 per dollar, investors continued to seek refuge in gold, citing concerns about inflation, geopolitical tensions, and fears of long-term currency weakness.
Silver prices, however, remained unchanged. In local markets, silver held steady at Rs4,031 per tola and Rs3,455 per 10 grams, while in the international market it stayed at $37.98 per ounce.
SBP to Roll Out PRISM+ Payment System
In a parallel development, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is set to roll out its upgraded payment and settlement platform, PRISM+, on Tuesday, August 19. Governor Jameel Ahmad will inaugurate the system at a ceremony attended by senior SBP officials, representatives of financial institutions, and other stakeholders.
Built on the ISO 20022 global messaging standard, PRISM+ represents a significant step toward modernising Pakistan’s financial infrastructure. The system consists of two main components: a faster Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) mechanism for high-value transactions and a Central Securities Depository (CSD) for government securities such as Treasury Bills and Pakistan Investment Bonds.
According to the SBP, PRISM+ will facilitate real-time payments, allow scheduling of transactions, and introduce priority-based settlements. It will also provide live dashboards and automatic invoicing, while strengthening transparency and security with full audit trails, role-based access, and instant alerts in case of settlement issues.
