Kathmandu, Oct. 9 -- to-back disasters have brought Nepal's economy to a near standstill, causing a sharp decline in people's purchasing power. Yet, even amid this economic gloom, the value of one precious metal continues to increase.

Bullion traders in Kathmandu report that customer flow in gold jewellery shops has surged dramatically, despite the relentless rise in gold prices, which are breaking new records almost daily.

The daily demand for gold has rocketed to around 40 kg-up from 15 kg before the recent protests. This demand has even exceeded the level bullion traders had projected for the upcoming wedding season, when the demand was expected to reach 30 kg a day.

Insiders attribute this surge to two factors: gold's status as a s...