Gold Futures & Options Expiry Dates 2026

Gold has been a popular investment option for several decades. Along with offering capital appreciation to investors, it also acts as a hedge against inflation. Previously, investors and traders traded gold physically; now, gold futures & options have streamlined and made the process more convenient. For traders, understanding the factors that affect gold prices is essential, as is knowing the gold futures & options expiry dates for 2026.

What is Gold Futures & Options Expiry?

Gold futures & options are derivative contracts of gold. A derivative is a financial instrument that derives its value from the underlying asset and has no intrinsic value. The value of gold futures & options changes as the price of gold changes.

Futures & options are a convenient way to trade gold. The parties involved in these contracts agree to purchase or sell the commodity on a specific date at a predetermined price. The last date on which these contracts can be traded is known as the expiry day. Upon expiry, the contracts lose value, and the parties can settle them either in cash or by physical delivery.

Gold Futures Expiry Date 2026

Here are the expiry dates for MCX gold futures contracts in 2026 -

(Gold February 2026 Contract Onwards)

Gold Options Expiry Date 2026

Here are the expiry dates for MCX gold options contracts in 2026 -

(Gold Option December 2025 Contract Onwards)

Factors That Can Affect Gold Price on Expiry

Commodity prices tend to be volatile; however, the derivatives on those commodities exhibit heightened volatility as expiration approaches. Changes in the price of a commodity affect derivative prices. Let’s examine some key factors that influence the gold price.

Demand and Supply

The primary factors that impact gold prices are demand and supply. When demand for a commodity exceeds its supply, its price can rise. Meanwhile, if the supply of the commodity exceeds demand, prices decline.

Gold is considered a precious metal due to its scarcity. The metal is mined, and the output contributes to the overall supply of the commodity. For example, if mining output is affected, it can drive up the price of gold.

Economic Indicators

Gold prices are closely tied to economic indicators such as inflation and GDP growth. Gold is often seen as a hedge against inflation, which is why investors prefer it during periods of rising inflation. Similarly, economic cycles, such as growth and recession, also affect gold prices. For example, during a recession, investors might invest in gold to preserve wealth.

Interest Rates

Central banks play a crucial role in gold pricing. Central banks take key monetary policy decisions, such as interest rates. When central banks raise interest rates, the price of gold declines as investors shift their money to higher-yielding investments. Similarly, in a low-interest-rate environment, liquidity increases, which in turn leads to higher gold prices.

Fluctuations in Currency

Fluctuations in currency rates also significantly impact gold prices. Gold is priced in the U.S. dollar. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar impact the demand and supply for gold. If the U.S. dollar strengthens against other currencies, purchasing gold becomes more expensive, which lowers demand. As demand declines, the value of gold also declines. On the contrary, if the U.S. dollar weakens against other currencies, demand for gold increases, driving up its price.

Geopolitical Events

Gold is considered a safe-haven investment, with many investors preferring it during times of uncertainty. Events such as wars, trade restrictions, or political instability increase uncertainty among investors. In such situations, the price of gold increases as investors view it as a safe bet that can help preserve wealth.