India's Forex Reserves Soar to $693 Billion, Gold Holdings Jump $2.6 Billion

• India's forex reserves surged by $4.368 billion to $693.318 billion by December 19.
• Gold reserves increased by $2.623 billion, reaching $110.365 billion, driven by global uncertainties.
• Foreign currency assets rose by $1.641 billion to $559.428 billion, with SDRs and IMF position also up.
• RBI states reserves cover over 11 months of imports, ensuring external sector resilience.
• Forex kitty saw significant increases in 2023, 2024, and so far in 2025, contrasting with a 2022 decline.

Why It Matters: India's forex reserves hit a new high of $693 billion, boosted by a significant rise in gold holdings.