As gold and silver prices surge ahead of Pakistan’s wedding season, investors are turning their attention to palladium, which analysts believe could break out soon amid growing auto demand and tight supply.
Gold rates are soaring like never before, and with Pakistan’s wedding season looming, traditional demand for gold and silver jewelry is driving prices toward new highs. But behind the glimmer of yellow and white metals lies a hint of something more: palladium, a lesser-known but strategically vital metal, may be gearing up for its breakout.
According to a recent Barron’s analysis, palladium, though up around 35% this year, has lagged behind gold, silver, and platinum gains. But Bloomberg Intelligence strategist Mike McGlone argues that palladium’s “steep discount” to its precious-metal peers may not last. He projects near-term targets of $1,500 per ounce, and even longer-term potential to revisit its 2022 high of $3,442.
Why palladium now? Unlike gold and silver, palladium is heavily used in catalytic converters for gas-powered vehicles. Should auto demand recover or emissions regulations tighten, the industrial appetite for palladium could heat up markets in a big way. At the same time, supply worries — especially from South Africa, a major production hub — could constrain growth. Barron’s
For investors, exposure is already available via ETFs such as abrdn Physical Palladium Shares or the Sprott Physical Platinum and Palladium Trust, as well as mining names like Sibanye Stillwater or Norisk Nickel. Barron’s+1
In Pakistan, as demand for gold and silver jewelry continues its seasonal surge, many will watch closely whether this underdog metal — palladium — can steal the spotlight. As markets pivot and industrial needs shift, the next big move might not be in yellow or white — but in a brilliant, silvery metal quietly preparing for its moment.
