Gold prices climbed on Friday as a weaker dollar and U.S. government shutdown uncertainty boosted safe-haven demand. Wall Street indexes faced sharp weekly declines amid concerns over AI stock rallies. Traders are now anticipating a potential Federal Reserve interest rate cut in December.

Crude prices recovered Friday as hopes emerged that Hungary could utilize Russian oil following a meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Orban. Despite this, both Brent and WTI benchmarks are set for weekly declines due to increased global production and a U.S. government shutdown impacting flight demand and air traffic controllers.

The U.S. dollar declined against major currencies like the euro and Swiss franc as investors weighed the Federal Reserve s hawkish stance against economic uncertainties. A prolonged government shutdown delayed the release of crucial jobs data, while falling Chinese exports added to global economic concerns. Treasury yields also dipped amid the ongoing shutdown.

Gold prices have corrected over 10% from record highs amid profit booking, easing geopolitical tensions, and a stronger US dollar. Despite short-term weakness, analysts say long-term fundamentals remain strong, supported by central bank buying, inflation concerns, and gold’s role as a strategic diversification asset.

After an impressive surge, Indian stock markets took a breather on Friday, with both Nifty and Sensex registering slight declines. Experts indicate this pause is due to a temporary slowdown in buying interest, lacking robust bullish signals. Market sentiments were also swayed by remarks from the US Federal Reserve.

Vanguard’s India portfolio has surged 53% to Rs 65,897 crore, with 10 key stocks rallying up to 90% in FY26, highlighting its sharp stock-picking strategy.

Time Technoplast, a polymer product maker, is raising funds through a qualified institutional placement. The company plans to raise approximately ₹800 crore. This move will dilute nearly 8.8% of its equity. The issue opens on November 6 at a floor price of ₹211.7 per share. The indicative issue price is ₹201.12 per share.

In a remarkable financial turn, Torrent Pharmaceuticals has disclosed a staggering 30% rise in after-tax profit for the September quarter, reaching ₹591 crore. This impressive growth is attributed to thriving sales in various markets, which escalated their total revenue to ₹3,302 crore.

HSBC sees India as a safe haven amid global AI market excitement. Indian stocks are currently underrepresented in emerging market portfolios. Increased investment could significantly benefit India. HSBC is positive on Indian equities, setting a 2026 Sensex target of 94,000. Valuations are now less of a concern. India offers value compared to Chinese equities.

Groww’s Rs 6,632 crore IPO saw strong demand, with 17.6 times overall subscription. Investors can check allotment status via MUFG Intime India or BSE. Refunds and share credits begin November 11, with listing on BSE and NSE scheduled for November 12.