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Gold, silver decline amid stronger dollar, focus on central bank meetingsGold and silver prices fell on March 16 due to a stronger US dollar and cautious investor sentiment. Gold futures dropped $56.70 to $5,005 per ounce, and silver fell $1.738 to $79.605 per ounce.By Anshul  March 16, 2026, 7:23:56 AM IST (Updated)2 Min ReadGold and silver prices declined in early trade on Monday (March 16), reflecting pressure from a stronger US dollar and cautious investor sentiment ahead of key global central bank meetings.

On the COMEX, gold futures fell $56.70, or 1.12%, to $5,005 per ounce, while silver dropped $1.738, or 2.14%, to $79.605 per ounce.

Market participants remained cautious as geopolitical tensions in West Asia continued to influence global financial markets and energy prices.

Oil prices stayed elevated amid hostilities in the Gulf region, adding uncertainty to the global inflation outlook and the path of monetary policy.

Brent crude traded around $103 a barrel, while US crude hovered near $98, keeping inflation concerns in focus for policymakers. Several major central banks — including the US Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank, and the Bank of England — are scheduled to announce policy decisions this week.

Markets widely expect them to hold interest rates steady, though investors will closely monitor their guidance on the future course of monetary policy.

Analysts said the evolving conflict in West Asia could continue to trigger volatility across commodity and financial markets.

Pranav Mer, Vice President, EBG – Commodity & Currency Research at JM Financial Services, said investors will track geopolitical developments closely as any escalation or easing of tensions could lead to sharp market moves.

He noted that bullion prices recently came under pressure due to a stronger US dollar and rising expectations that global central banks may delay interest rate cuts amid higher crude oil prices.

Despite the near-term weakness, analysts said safe-haven demand linked to geopolitical tensions could continue to lend some support to bullion prices.

Silver has also remained under pressure, partly due to a corrective move in industrial metals and the strengthening dollar, which typically reduces the appeal of precious metals for investors holding other currencies.

Market participants are also monitoring developments around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, after reports that multiple countries may form a coalition to escort vessels through the passage.

Analysts expect bullion markets to remain volatile in the coming sessions as investors assess geopolitical risks, energy prices, and signals from major central banks on the outlook for global interest rates.

-With agencies inputsContinue ReadingNote To ReadersDisclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers should consult certified experts before making any investment decisions.First Published: Mar 16, 2026 7:20 AM ISTTagsgoldGold Pricesgold ratessilversilver prices