Gold prices remained largely unchanged on October 29 after the US Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates steady. Investors are now turning their attention to fresh US inflation data, which could offer clues about the central bank’s next move and influence the direction of gold prices.

International gold prices briefly climbed to nearly $4,076 per ounce during early trading on October 29. However, the gains did not last long, with prices settling just above $4,040 per ounce, marking a decline of around 0.67% over the previous 24 hours. US gold futures remained relatively stable at around $4,052.10 per ounce.

In India, gold prices followed a similar trend. Gold futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) for December 4 delivery were trading marginally lower at Rs 1,43,573 per 10 grams. MCX spot gold had closed the previous session at Rs 1,42,253 per 10 grams on October 28. Silver prices, meanwhile, settled at Rs 1,93,477 per kg.

Why the US Federal Reserve’s Decision Matters for Gold

On October 28, the US Federal Reserve decided to maintain its benchmark interest rates in the range of 3.75% to 4%, instead of making another change. The decision offered some support to gold after recent selling pressure in the market.

However, the decision has not completely removed uncertainty. While most policymakers supported keeping rates unchanged, two officials favoured increasing them, indicating that the possibility of further rate hikes remains.

Interest rates play an important role in determining gold’s attractiveness as an investment. Gold does not generate regular income through interest or dividends. Therefore, when interest rates rise, investors may prefer interest-bearing assets such as bonds and deposits.

On the other hand, when interest rates remain steady or move lower, gold can become relatively more attractive as an investment option.

US Inflation Data Could Decide Gold’s Next Move

Investors are now closely tracking the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation data. This is one of the key inflation measures monitored by the Federal Reserve while deciding its monetary policy.

The latest inflation figures could help investors understand whether price pressures in the US economy are easing or remaining high. If inflation stays elevated, the central bank may consider keeping interest rates higher for longer or raising them further.

Apart from inflation, movements in the US dollar and US Treasury yields will also influence gold prices. A stronger dollar can make gold more expensive for buyers using other currencies, potentially reducing demand. Higher bond yields can also make gold less attractive compared with investments that offer returns.

What Should Indian Gold Investors Watch?

According to Vikram Subburaj, CEO of Giottus, gold and silver futures in India continue to experience volatility as investors assess the Federal Reserve’s decision and wait for fresh inflation data. Neither metal has shown a clear recovery trend yet.

He noted that gold needs to stay above Rs 1,43,321 per 10 grams to avoid further downward pressure. A sustained rise above Rs 1,44,343 could strengthen the possibility of a recovery.

For silver, the important level to watch is Rs 1,94,000 per kg. A move above Rs 1,96,550 could indicate improving market momentum.

Nischal Shetty, founder of WazirX, also highlighted that the Federal Reserve’s decision to maintain interest rates reduced the immediate possibility of tighter financial conditions in the US. However, differences among policymakers and interest rate decisions in other countries show that global monetary policy remains uncertain.

For now, gold prices are likely to react to fresh inflation numbers, currency movements and expectations around future interest rate decisions.

For Indian investors, this means keeping an eye on domestic gold prices and global developments rather than making decisions based on short-term price movements alone.

Source: MoneyControl

A lower expense ratio may not look like much today, but over the years, it could make a difference of several lakhs to your mutual fund investments.

When investing in mutual funds, most people focus on how much they invest and how much their money could grow. But there is another factor that deserves attention: the cost of investing.

From November 1, 2026, direct mutual fund plans will become the default option on asset management companies’ (AMCs) digital platforms, according to Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey. Investors who choose regular plans will also be informed about their higher expense ratios.

The move aims to make investment costs more visible and help people make informed decisions. But what does this mean for someone investing ₹10,000 every month through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)?

Direct vs Regular Mutual Funds: What Is the Difference?

Direct and regular plans invest in the same mutual fund scheme. They have the same fund manager and invest in the same underlying portfolio. The main difference lies in how investors access them and the costs they pay.

Direct plans: Investors purchase these plans directly from the mutual fund company, without going through a distributor. Since distributor commissions are not included, these plans generally have lower expense ratios.

Regular plans: Investors purchase these plans through distributors or intermediaries. The cost of distribution is reflected in their expenses, which generally makes their expense ratios higher than those of direct plans.

An expense ratio is the annual cost of managing a mutual fund, expressed as a percentage of its assets. This cost is deducted from the fund’s assets and is reflected in its Net Asset Value (NAV), affecting the returns investors ultimately receive.

Although the difference in expenses may appear small, it can have a meaningful impact when investments are held for several years.

How Much Could You Save on a ₹10,000 Monthly SIP?

Consider a hypothetical example in which an investor puts ₹10,000 into a mutual fund every month and earns an annual return of 12% before base expenses.

An illustration using the Groww Large Cap Fund shows how the difference in expenses between its direct and regular plans could affect the final investment value over 20 years.

Particulars	Direct Plan	Regular Plan
Monthly SIP	₹10,000	₹10,000
Investment period	20 years	20 years
Total amount invested	₹24 lakh	₹24 lakh
Illustrative final value	₹84.53 lakh	₹75.06 lakh

Under these assumptions, the direct plan could accumulate approximately ₹9.47 lakh more than the regular plan.

The difference comes from the assumed gap in base expenses, which affects how much of the fund’s returns remains invested. Over time, even a relatively small cost difference can compound into a much larger amount.

These figures are illustrative, not guaranteed. Actual returns will depend on market performance, the fund’s total expenses and other factors.

Why Do Lower Expenses Matter Over the Long Term?

Mutual fund expenses can affect returns year after year. When costs are lower, more of the fund’s returns remain available to contribute to an investor’s overall wealth.

The impact becomes more noticeable over longer periods because investments have more time to compound. This is why investors should look beyond a fund’s past performance and consider its expense ratio as well.

However, a lower expense ratio does not automatically mean that a fund is the right choice for every investor. The scheme’s investment strategy, risk level and suitability for an individual’s financial goals also matter.

Should You Always Choose a Direct Plan?

Direct plans can be suitable for investors who are comfortable researching mutual funds, selecting schemes and managing their portfolios independently.

Regular plans, on the other hand, may suit investors who value assistance from a distributor when choosing investments and reviewing their portfolios. The higher cost may be worth considering alongside the guidance and services received.

SEBI’s announcement does not mean regular plans are being discontinued. Investors will still be able to choose them, but they must be informed about their higher expense ratios.

The change also does not mean existing regular-plan investments or SIPs will automatically become direct plans. Investors should check their current investments and understand the implications before making any changes.

What Should Mutual Fund Investors Keep in Mind?

Before starting a SIP, compare the direct and regular versions of a scheme and understand the costs associated with each. Also consider whether you need professional assistance with fund selection and portfolio management.

Expense ratios are only one part of the total cost of investing, and the base expense figures used in an illustration may not capture every cost. Market-linked investments also carry risk, and actual returns may differ significantly from assumed returns.

Ultimately, the goal is not simply to choose the cheapest option. It is to understand what you are paying for, what support you need and how your investment fits into your long-term financial plans.

A small difference in costs today can add up over time. Knowing where your money goes is an important step towards making better investment decisions.

Source: MoneyControl

Coca-Cola is moving ahead with plans to potentially list its Indian bottling business on the stock market, with the proposed public offering expected to take place in 2027. The company is preparing to take its bottling operations, housed under Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings (HCCH), to the public market, subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions.

The proposed IPO could be worth around $1 billion, with the company reportedly targeting a valuation of approximately $10 billion. The offering is expected to primarily involve existing shareholders selling a portion of their stake, rather than the company raising fresh money through new shares.

What Is Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings?

Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings is the parent company of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), one of Coca-Cola’s largest bottling operations in India.

HCCB manufactures, packages and distributes beverages across the country. Its portfolio includes popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Thums Up, Sprite, Fanta, Limca and Maaza.

The business operates 14 bottling plants across 10 states and has a distribution network of more than 2,000 distributors. It also reaches over 1.7 million customers, supported by approximately 5,000 employees.

Why Is Coca-Cola Considering a Public Listing?

The proposed IPO is part of Coca-Cola’s broader strategy to move towards a more asset-light business model. This approach allows the company to focus more on its brands, marketing, innovation and digital capabilities while working with partners to manage bottling and distribution operations.

In July 2025, Jubilant Bhartia Group acquired a 40% stake in HCCH for approximately ₹12,500 crore, while Coca-Cola retained its majority holding. The potential public listing would be another step in reshaping the ownership and operations of its Indian bottling business.

Why Does India Matter to Coca-Cola?

India remains an important growth market for the global beverage company. Demand for affordable products, zero-sugar beverages and locally relevant offerings has helped support its performance in the country.

Coca-Cola has also pointed to the growing contribution of quick-service restaurants, emerging sales channels and social media and influencer collaborations to its Indian business.

A public listing could give investors an opportunity to participate in the growth of the company’s bottling operations, while allowing existing shareholders to partially monetise their investments.

What Could the IPO Mean for Investors?

If the listing proceeds, investors may get an opportunity to own shares in a business connected to some of India’s most widely recognised beverage brands.

However, the proposed IPO is still subject to regulatory requirements and market conditions. The final issue price, share-sale details and other offer terms will become clearer as the process progresses.

For retail investors, the key will be to look beyond the strength of the brand. Understanding the company’s financial performance, valuation, debt levels, growth prospects and risks will be important before making any investment decision.

The bottom line: Coca-Cola’s proposed Indian bottling business IPO could bring another well-known consumer business to India’s stock market. But as with any public offering, investors should assess the company’s fundamentals and valuation rather than relying on brand familiarity alone.

Source: The Economic Times