Synopsis
Understanding Gold and Silver ETFs
Gold and silver ETFs are a type of investment vehicle that allows investors to buy and own precious metals without physically holding them. These ETFs are traded on stock exchanges like any other stock and their value reflects the performance of the underlying precious metals. They typically invest in gold or silver bullion, futures contracts, or track the price of the precious metal as closely as possible.
- Gold and silver ETFs offer a convenient way to gain exposure to gold and silver without the need for physical ownership.
- These ETFs trade like stocks and mirror the metals’ performance, making them an attractive option for retail investors.
The Benefits of Buying Gold and Silver Through Mutual Funds
There are several benefits to buying precious metals through mutual funds. Some of the key advantages include:
- No storage cost, worries of purity, making charges, or chances of theft.
- Low-cost tracking of gold or silver prices.
- Convenience of buying units of the mutual fund scheme, which gives exposure to gold or silver as an asset class.
Available Gold and Silver ETFs
There are currently:
- 20 gold ETFs with assets worth Rs 62,124 crore as of May 31, 2025.
- 15 silver ETFs with assets worth Rs 15,500 crore as of May 31, 2025.
Return on Investment for Gold and Silver Funds
The performance of gold and silver funds over the years is impressive:
- Over the last decade, gold funds have returned 22.05% and silver funds have returned 18.29%.
- Over the last one year, gold funds have returned 30.89% and silver funds have returned 15.18%.
Portfolio Allocation for Gold and Silver
Wealth managers recommend allocating 10-15% of the portfolio to gold and silver, based on risk appetite and asset allocation. Investors can stagger their purchases through systematic investment plans (SIPs).
“The key to successful investing is to diversify your portfolio and have a well-thought-out strategy. Gold and silver can be a great addition to your portfolio, providing a hedge against inflation and providing exposure to a new asset class.” – A wealth manager
Conclusion
Investing in gold and silver through mutual funds is a lucrative opportunity for retail investors. With the benefits of low storage costs, convenient investment options, and impressive returns, it’s an attractive option for those looking to diversify their portfolios. As always, it’s essential to do your research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.