New Delhi, April 23 -- Gold remains a crucial strategic asset and serves as an effective diversifier for investment portfolios, even during times of heightened volatility, said World Gold Council in its latest report.

The council highlighted that swings in gold prices have become more pronounced in 2026, caused by a combination of macroeconomic and market influences. A significant factor contributing to this has been the dampening of expectations for interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, paired with an increase in bond yields.

The international trade association noted that these changes were shaped by events such as the appointment of Kevin Warsh at the end of January and rising tensions in the Middle East in February, which amplif...