Tag: Gold

Best Digital Gold Platforms in India: Top Apps to Buy and Invest in Gold Securely in 2025

India is the largest importer of Gold in the world. Gold is not only a material of great value that is closely tied to Indian culture and tradition, but it has also been a time-tested investment option, which is very common among Indian households. With the emergence of the internet and the digitalization of the day, gold and the investment in gold in India also took the digital route.

Yes, it is digital gold now in place of the physical gold that is growing in popularity. Furthermore, numerous gold investment companies and online platforms for purchasing gold are fueling the growing demand for digital gold, or e-gold, enabling investors to buy gold quickly, securely, and easily.

The Digital Gold can be bought online and will be stored in safe vaults until sold. Currently, three entities in India provide Digital Gold. You can use certain platforms to make digital gold purchases online, but these three companies would have to be associated with those platforms.

India’s digital gold market is growing fast and could become a $100 billion opportunity by 2025. This growth is happening because more people are using fintech apps, and young investors are now more aware that gold is a smart way to invest.

The three companies in India are Augmont Goldtech Pvt. Ltd., MMTC-PAMP India Pvt. Ltd., and Digital Gold India Pvt. Ltd., which is sold under the brand Safe Gold. These companies purchase the gold and store it safely in vaults on behalf of the platforms.

Advantages of E-Gold

Gold rates on the NSE are based on Indian market rates.
Investors can buy and sell gold in small denominations. E.g., 1gm, 2gm of gold.
Transparency in pricing and seamless trading are one of the major advantages of this product.
This product is high in liquidity. One can sell it at any point in time. No impurity risks.

Here is the list of gold trading apps that bring in fantastic gold investment options, or buying digital gold, which one can opt to invest in E-gold in India.

List of Best Platforms to Buy Digital Gold in India in 2025

#	Brand Name	App Type / Category	Platform Availability	Main Use	Why Users Like It
1	Paytm	UPI & Wallet App	Android, iOS, Web	UPI payments, recharges, shopping	All-in-one app with fast payments and cashback
2	PhonePe	UPI Payment App	Android, iOS	UPI and bill payments	Simple interface and quick transactions
3	Google Pay	UPI Payment App	Android, iOS	UPI payments	Backed by Google, easy to use
4	Groww	Investment App	Android, iOS, Web	Stocks & mutual fund investment	Beginner-friendly with low fees
5	Jar	Gold Saving App	Android, iOS	Gold savings via spare change	Auto-saves small amounts daily into digital gold
6	Airtel Payments Bank	Digital Bank & Wallet	Android, iOS, Web	Digital banking & payments	Works well with Airtel ecosystem
7	Amazon Pay	UPI & Wallet App	Android, iOS, Web	Payments and shopping rewards	Smooth for Amazon users, cashback offers
8	HDFC Securities	Stock Trading Platform	Android, iOS, Web	Stock trading	Trusted banking brand with full trading tools
9	Motilal Oswal	Investment Platform	Android, iOS, Web	Investments & research	Strong advisory and research support
10	FinPlay	Learning & Budgeting App	Android, iOS	Financial learning app for teens	Makes money learning fun and interactive
11	Zerodha	Stock Trading Platform	Web, Android (via Kite)	Discount stock brokerage	Low brokerage fees and easy interface
12	Tanishq	Jewellery Shopping App	Android, iOS, Web	Gold and jewellery shopping	Trusted brand with high-quality jewellery
13	Spare8	Micro-Investment App	Android, iOS	Save and invest spare change	Helps build habits through micro-investments
14	DigiGold	Digital Gold Platform	Android, iOS, Web	Buy & sell digital gold	Instant gold buying with real-time prices
15	Jupiter Money	Neobank	Android, iOS	Smart digital banking	Money tracking and spending insights
16	MMTC-PAMP	Gold Investment Platform	Android, iOS, Web	Digital gold and bullion buying	Government-authorized and safe
17	Gullak	Gold Saving App	Android, iOS	Auto-save & invest in gold	Daily auto-savings into gold
18	Pluto Money	Finance EdTech App	Android, iOS	Financial education for Gen Z	Gamified learning for young users
19	Plus Gold	Gold Investment App	Android, iOS	Gold saving and investment	Goal-based savings in gold
20	Dvara SmartGold	Gold Saving Platform	Android (mostly)	Rural-focused gold savings	Easy gold savings for underserved communities
21	Fiydaa	Budgeting App	Android, iOS	Budgeting & money management	Helps users plan, track, and save smarter
22	eBullion	Gold Investment Platform	Android, iOS, Web	Buy, sell & manage gold 24/7	Offers full control, price alerts, and deep insights

How to Invest in E-Gold?

Open a Demat Account

To purchase commodities in NSE, you must have a Demat account. One can keep a separate Demat account for equities and commodities or keep the same one. To open an account, one can submit all the required documentation to NSE.

Trading

Once your account is opened, you can log in and buy e-gold. You can trade from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on weekdays. Your gold units will get credited to your Demat account in T+2 days (date plus one days).

Physical Delivery

If you want, you can physically deliver gold at any time by redeeming e-gold units in your Demat account.

The graph shows the gold price movement in India per 10 grams from 2015 to 2025. The price of gold has been increasing over the past few years, and it is likely to continue to increase in the future.

The gold price started at around INR 26,345 per 10 grams in 2015 and reached INR 58,270 per 10 grams in 2023, an increase of over 100%, and INR 98,303 in July 2025. The main reasons for the increase in gold price are inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising demand from India.

List of Digital Gold Investment Platforms

Paytm

Name	Paytm
Founded	2010
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

Paytm is an e-commerce payment system and a fintech company in India. It was founded in the year 2010 and has its headquarters located in Uttar Pradesh, India. Paytm provides an opportunity for Indians to invest or purchase 99.99% pure Gold for as low as INR 1.

The user can purchase gold through the Paytm app by choosing the stocks and wealth icon and then selecting the Paytm Gold icon, which lets you invest in Gold in terms of rupees or quantity. It is one of the most trustworthy and best gold investment app in India.

PhonePe

Name	PhonePe
Founded	2015
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

PhonePe is an Indian financial service and a digital payment platform. It was founded in the year 2015 and has its headquarters in Bangalore, India. The company is a subsidiary of Flipkart. Even PhonePe allows its users to invest or purchase 99.99% pure Gold for as low as INR 1. It is one of the best platform for the best digital gold investment in India.

PhonePe platform provides the promise of transparent pricing and assured quality, and is one of the best ways to buy gold online. In PhonePe, the users will have to log into their account and choose the Gold option available in the My Money section. With PhonePe, the users can invest in Gold in terms of rupees or quantity.

Google Pay

Name	Google Pay
Founded	2011
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

Google Pay is also a digital payment platform, which is powered by Google. It was launched in the year 2015. Google Pay also lets users invest or purchase 99.99% pure Gold for as low as INR 1.

The users can purchase the gold by using the Google Pay platform, which works similarly to the digital gold purchased through PhonePe and Paytm.

Groww

Name	Groww
Founded	2016
Minimum Investment	INR 10
Partnered with	Augmont Gold

Groww is an Indian-based online investment platform. It provides services to customers to invest in mutual funds and stocks. The company was founded in the year 2016, is headquartered in Bangalore, and is one of the best platforms to buy digital gold in India.

Through Groww, the users will be able to purchase Gold in terms of grams from a starting price of INR 10. The purchase cannot be made through the Groww funds, and the users will have to purchase them through UPI, NEFT, net banking, IMPS, or RTGS. If it is net banking, then they will have to purchase for more than INR 100.

Jar

Name	Jar
Founded	2021
Minimum Investment	Based on Digital Transaction Value
Partnered with	SafeGold

Jar App - Best Digital Gold Investment App — Jar App – Best Platform to Buy Digital Gold in India

The Jar App is a daily savings platform that rounds off spare change from your digital transactions and invests it in digital Gold, all of this with zero manual involvement. For example, if a person spends Rs. 23, Jar smartly rounds it off to the nearest ten and automatically invests Rs. 7 in digital gold on their behalf.
First of its kind, with Jar App, you can save while you spend. The entire process takes 45 seconds and can start right after.
Jar App enables its customers to save consistently with minimum hassle so that they are all prepared for the future.

Airtel Payments Bank

Name	Airtel Payments Bank
Founded	2016
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	SafeGold

Airtel Payments Bank is a financial service company that is a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel. It is the first company to receive a payments bank license from the RBI. Headquartered in New Delhi, India, Airtel Payments Bank was founded in the year 2017.

Airtel has launched a new platform, DigiGold. It is one of the best platforms to buy digital gold from. This platform will allow users to invest in digital gold. This feature can be used only by the savings account customers of Airtel Payments Bank.

Amazon Pay

Name	Amazon Pay
Founded	2007
Minimum Investment	INR 5
Partnered with	SafeGold

Amazon is one of the largest e-commerce platforms in India. It is a US-based company that was founded in the year 1994. Launched in 2007, Amazon Pay uses the consumer base of Amazon.com and focuses on giving users the option to pay with their Amazon accounts on external merchant websites. If you are looking for how to buy gold online with Amazon, then that is easy, too.

The users can buy Digital Gold through the Amazon App on the Amazon Pay page, or they can search for it directly in the search bar. Once the users can log in, they can click on the gold vault icon and see the buy price at that time. The digital gold can be bought from the starting price of INR 5. The users can buy up to 30g of Gold without KYC.

HDFC Securities

Name	HDFC Securities
Founded	2000
Minimum Investment	1 gram of Gold
Partnered with	Augmont Gold

HDFC is a financial securities company that is a subsidiary of HDFC Bank. HDFC Securities was founded in the year 2000, and its headquarters are located in Mumbai, India. HDFC Securities also allows its users to invest in digital gold.

Using HDFC securities, users can buy 24K Gold in terms of rupees as well as quantity. It is one of the best gold trading apps. You will be able to buy the top-quality Gold and store it safely in the digital locker, which can be accessed anytime and anywhere.

Motilal Oswal

Name	Motilal Oswal
Founded	1987
Minimum Investment	1 gram of Gold
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

Motilal Oswal is an India-based diversified financial service company that also provides gold investment opportunities. The company was founded in the year 1987 and has its headquarters in Mumbai, India. Motilal Oswal allows users to purchase digital Gold at a starting price of INR 1,000. You can purchase 24k pure gold at the best price and keep it safe online.

FinPlay

Name	FinPlay
Founded	2021
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

FinPlay is a game-based investment platform that is designed to bring two exciting themes of fintech and gaming together, making it one of the best gold investment apps in India. Founded by two IITians, FinPlay allows users to play games and earn FinCash awards, which they can redeem to get financial products at discounted rates on the platform, along with other rewards like Amazon coupons and more. Recognized as one of the best apps for gold investment, FinPlay offers a user-friendly approach to investing in digital gold, making it the best place to buy digital gold.

FinPlay currently helps users with the opportunity to buy digital gold. FinPlay extends easy ways to invest in 24K, 99.99% Pure Gold, which is 100% safe and secure, and promises transparent pricing. The company also enables its customers and other investors to buy and invest in digital gold starting from Re 1, and is gearing up to become a major company that would let users invest in gold.

Zerodha

Name	Zerodha
Founded	2010
Minimum Investment	1 gram of Gold
Partnered with	Augmont Gold

Zerodha is India’s largest retail stockbroker by active client base and trading volume. It is a discount broker, meaning it charges lower commissions than traditional brokers. Zerodha is known for its innovative trading platforms and its focus on customer service.

By expanding its reach into the e-hold trading industry, Zerodha has added another layer of innovation to its portfolio. It is a ground-breaking bargain brokerage. With a track record of disrupting the financial sector, it now provides a stable investment environment for digital gold. The platform’s commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected by the multitude of cutting-edge tools it provides, which equip users with the knowledge they need to make sound decisions and pave the way for an interesting and profitable e-gold investment experience.

Tanishq

Name	Tanishq
Founded	1994
Minimum Investment	INR 100
Partnered with	SafeGold

Tanishq is a leading Indian jewelry brand in the Tata Group. It is known for its high-quality jewelry and its commitment to ethical sourcing. Tanishq has a wide range of jewelry products, including gold, diamond, and platinum, making it one of the best apps for gold investment.

Tanishq is also a pioneer in the digital gold space. It was the first jewelry brand in India to offer digital gold to its customers. Tanishq’s digital gold product, Tanishq e-gold, is powered by SafeGold, a digital gold provider regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

You can sell or swap the gold at any of its 350+ outlets in India anytime. There are no additional fees for the app’s locker or transaction processing. It is one of the best platforms to invest in gold and one of the most reputable sites for purchasing gold in physical and digital forms because it is a Tata Group firm. Tanishq is a trusted brand with a long history of providing high-quality jewelry and ethical sourcing. Its digital gold product, Tanishq e-gold, is a convenient and affordable way for investors to invest in gold. Tanishq is considered as the safest and best app to buy digital gold.

Spare8

Name	Spare8
Founded	2020
Minimum Investment	INR 10
Partnered with	Augmont & Paytm

Founded in September 2021, FinPlay is currently led by Ganesh Kumar Anegondi (Co-founder and CEO) and is built to simplify long-term investing and is, therefore, great for first-time investors. The platform currently lists digital gold as the only asset, but is planning to launch mutual funds and stock baskets in the upcoming months. “Democratise finance and wealth management for millennials in India” is currently the mission of FinPlay. The startup further aims to emerge as the go-to wealth platform for millennials who are just starting their wealth creation journey. It is considered one of the best app for gold investment, as it offers a user-friendly approach to investing in digital gold.

DigiGold

Name	DigiGold
Founded	2020
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	–

DigiGold is an investment platform by Amrapali Gujarat, founded in 2020, with 40+ years of legacy in Bulk Gold and Silver. Accredited by NABL and BIS, and supported by GGC and SEQUEL, DigiGold is one of the best apps to buy digital gold and is one of the best digital gold companies in India. Gold purchased by the users is stored in Government-trusted vaults of BRINKS. The minimum amount of purchase starts from just INR 1. They also offer a no-lock-in-period SIP in Gold with a minimum amount of INR 500 through periodic installments. With DigiGold, you can buy and possess a portion of massive gold, silver, and platinum bars that are safely stored in The Vault. DigiGold is considered as the best place to buy digital gold.

Jupiter Money

Name	Jupiter Money
Founded	2019
Minimum Investment	INR 10
Partnered with	MMTC-PAMP

Jupiter Money is a digital payment app powered by Federal Bank, founded by Jitendra Gupta and Vishnu Jerome in 2019, and headquartered in Mumbai. The Jupiter Money app allows investors to buy/sell digital gold or start a No-penalty SIP starting at INR 10. Jupiter Money and MMTC-PAMP have teamed up to provide digital gold on the platform. You can invest in 24K gold that is 99.99% pure through Jupiter Money. Gold can be purchased and sold at current market prices at any time of day. With the app, you may store gold in safe vaults.

MMTC-PAMP

Name	MMTC-PAMP
Founded	2008
Minimum Investment	INR 1
Partnered with	–

MMTC-PAMP was founded in 2008 as a joint venture between MMTC Ltd. (a government of India undertaking and India’s largest public sector trading organization) and PAMP SA, a bullion brand based in Switzerland. Investors can redeem digital gold for 24K, 999.9 purest gold bars and coins from MMTC-PAMP. They can sell the digital gold back to MMTC-PAMP or gift/transfer the gold to a loved one using the platform.

Gullak

Name	Gullak
Founded	2022
Minimum Investment	0.5 gm of gold
Partnered with	Augmont

Gullak is a savings and investment app founded by Manthan Shah, Dilip Jain, and Naimisha Rao in 2022. Recognized as the best digital gold investment app in India, Augmont and Gullak collaborated to create the leasing scheme known as Gullak’s Gold+. With the Gullak app, customers may safely lease their gold thanks to Gold+. Reputable, reliable, and established jewelers lease gold metal. Jewelers offer investment protection in the form of bank or corporate guarantees. The interest that these jewelers pay is expressed in grams of gold, and the users also benefit from this. The minimum quantity required to participate in Gold+ is 0.5 grams, and the maximum quantity is 250 grams.

Pluto Money

Name	Pluto Money
Founded	2023
Minimum Investment	INR 100
Partnered with	Augmont

Pluto Money, a goal-based saving platform that assists users in creating a secure financial future, was founded by Danish and Reev. It is known as one of the best apps to invest in gold. It assists users in establishing a savings habit, making low-risk investments, and reaching their financial objectives. With Pluto Money, investors can buy 24K, 99.9% pure gold and convert digital gold to physical gold, with delivery to your doorstep. To invest in digital gold, download the app, register, choose your investment amount, and complete your purchase.

Plus Gold

Name	Plus Gold
Founded	2022
Minimum Investment	INR 100
Partnered with	Augmont

Plus Gold is an Indian-based jewellery savings app that combines the simplicity of digital gold investment with the excitement of building a jewellery collection. Users can invest in gold through systematic investment plans (SIPs) or one-time purchases, with no lock-in period, allowing for easy redemption anytime. Purchases can be made using UPI, NEFT, net banking, IMPS, or RTGS, making it one of the best apps to buy digital gold.

With Plus Gold, users earn a 10% extra gold benefit, receiving 1 gram of additional gold on every 10 grams purchased. Trusted by over 300 verified jewellers and redeemable at 1,000+ stores in 520+ cities, Plus Gold offers a secure and flexible way to save in gold for the future.

Dvara SmartGold

Name	Dvara SmartGOld
Founded	2019
Minimum Investment	INR 100
Partnered with	Jana Small Finance Bank (SFB)

Dvara SmartGold is a micro-savings platform that helps users build a financial safety net by investing in gold. Launched in 2019, it allows you to save in small, flexible installments through SIPs, and redeem your savings as cash, coins, or jewellery from trusted jewellers.

With no fees or commissions on SIPs and secure storage in BRINKS vaults, Dvara SmartGold offers a simple, safe, and affordable way to grow your gold savings for future needs.

Fiydaa

Name	Fiydaa
Founded	2023
Minimum Investment	INR 5
Partnered with	Not publicly disclosed

Fiydaa is a digital gold investment platform designed for middle-class savers, letting you start with as little as INR 5. It offers flexible SIP options like DigiGold SIP (from ₹100), Lease SIP (earn extra 4% monthly in grams), and Gold Coin SIP (redeem coins later). With Fiydaa X, users can lease gold to earn up to 6% annually. All gold is securely stored and can be redeemed anytime for cash or physical delivery. Fiydaa also offers its jewelry line, Elegance.

eBullion

Name	eBullion
Founded	2020
Minimum Investment	Not disclosed
Partnered with	Not publicly disclosed

eBullion is a complete digital gold investment platform that lets users buy, sell, and manage gold 24/7. It’s designed for both beginners and active investors who want full control and real-time insights. The platform offers live gold prices, smart price alerts, and detailed portfolio tracking. Users can set custom alerts to buy or sell at their preferred rates. All gold is 100% insured, stored in secure vaults, and can be redeemed anytime for cash or physical delivery. eBullion focuses on transparency, safety, and flexibility, making gold investing simple and convenient.

FAQs

Can people buy E-Gold in India?

Yes, you can buy digital gold in India through various digital gold investment platforms.

Is digital gold better than physical gold?

Digital gold is a better option than physical gold as it ensures safety and has no additional storage costs.

What is E-gold in India?

E-gold is held electronically in the demat form and can be freely converted into physical gold.

Which is the best country to buy gold?

If you are wondering about the best country to buy gold, it is Dubai, UAE.

What is digital gold?

Digital gold or e-gold is a virtual form of gold investment that one can make. The users can easily buy e-gold via the best gold investment apps available online and have it stored in secured vaults.

What is the best way to buy digital gold?

The best way to buy digital gold is through trusted apps like eBullion, Jar, or MMTC-PAMP that offer real-time prices, secure vault storage, and easy redemption.

Which are the best Digital Gold Investment platforms in India?

Some of the best Digital Gold Investment platforms in India are:

Paytm
Phonepe
Google Pay
Groww
Jar
Airtel Payments Bank
Amazon
HDFC Securities
Motilal Oswal
FinPlay
Upstox
Zerodha
5paisa
Tanishq

October 17, 2025

Buying Sovereign Gold Bonds on Akshaya Tritiya? Make the Most of This Gold Investment

The Government of India launched Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) in 2015, and since then, they have provided investors an exclusive means to latch onto gold’s price uptrend while pocketing fixed returns. Storage and authenticity worries do not plague SGB investors as they do with direct gold ownership. Additionally, SGBs pay interest at an annual rate of 2.5 percent (crediting semi-annually), and they can be redeemed (along with the price appreciation) after five years, with mandatory holding till year eight for those who don’t redeem early. SGBs are freely traded on the NSE and BSE.

Since fresh issuances have been halted starting FY 2024-25, the only way left for investors to get Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) exposure is through the secondary market. So this Akshaya Tritiya, which is a day typically associated with buying gold, is the perfect occasion to discuss the all-important aspect of investing in gold via SGBs in the secondary market.

Navigating the Secondary Market: Liquidity and Pricing

More than 60 tranches of SGBs have been issued since inception, but only a few are actively traded. Some of the series, like the SGB 2023-24 Series I and III, are known for their better liquidity. Others are known to trade infrequently. As of April 2025, a number of SGBs have been found to be priced above the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) gold reference rate. The premium is said to be driven by rising gold prices and limited supply.

Bonds that trade more actively are likely to be closer in value to the IBJA rate and hence offer better value. Conversely, if a bond is thinly traded, it might carry a premium of 10% or more which would definitely eat into any potential returns, especially if the price of gold does not move appreciably higher over the life of the bond. A good rule of thumb is to check the price of the bond against the rate that IBJA is posting before making a purchase.

Strategic Moves for Maximising SGB Returns

Individuals looking to purchase SGBs this Akshaya Tritiya can make use of these practical strategies to enhance their investment experience:

– Put liquidity first: Actively traded series are your best bet for a smooth exit when you need one. And that helps you avoid low-volume, high-price traps that can short-circuit your returns.

– Avoid bonds priced more than 10% above the Indian Bullion Jewelers Association (IBJA) rate. Bonds above that price may not give you sufficient returns for the risk taken.

– In contrast, bonds priced at 10% or less above the IBJA rate may pay you back with a little more than the typical risk-free product. These are the bonds you want to buy.

– Align with Your Objectives: Invest in bonds that match your goals. If you’re saving for retirement and expect to live primarily off your assets for 15 to 30 years, then you might choose to invest in bonds maturing in 2030 or 2031. Those bonds are long-term assets.

– Optimizing the Tax Benefits: When you hold SGBs to maturity, the gains you realize are not taxed. This is a bigger seller than any other gold investment. Even the tax in the hands of the gold bond issuer is paid at a lower rate. There are no annual tax consequences with SGBs. Thus far, SGBs seem to be on a tax honeymoon.

– Monitor Worldwide Changes: With the price of gold soaring to USD 3,100 an ounce in 2025 because of geopolitical crises and plummeting global interest rates, sovereign gold bonds continue to serve as a protective device against the twin perils of inflation and economic uncertainty.

April 30, 2025
Gold Prices Cross INR 1 Lakh for the First Time: What’s Powering the Surge?

In India, gold has crossed the INR 1 lakh per 10 gram threshold for the first time in history, marking a key moment for the precious metal. The recent price move was very much an international one, with gold climbing past USD 3,400 an ounce. Instability in worldwide financial markets, which U.S. President Donald Trump has worsened with his controversial economic policies, has sent many investors scurrying to the largely forsaken yellow metal as a safe haven. Gold is now establishing itself as a hedge against whatever the President might throw at the nation and the world.

As of Tuesday, 24-karat gold was trading at INR 101,350 per 10 grams in the Mumbai bullion market. The variant of 22 karats was standing at INR 92,900. The broader flight to safety among investors, who are turning away from riskier assets, is emblematic of a potential period of prolonged inflation and unpredictable monetary policy. It also makes a curious case for gold’s rising demand.

Trump’s Fed Overhaul and Dollar Slide Drive Momentum

An increasing contributor to the gold rally is the friction that is growing between President Trump and the U.S. Federal Reserve. His public criticism of Jerome Powell, the current Fed Chair, and his demands for aggressive interest rate cuts have unmoored investor confidence. The U.S. dollar has since been set adrift, falling to its lowest level since 2022. The dip has rendered the once-mighty dollar much less appealing to global investors, which has in turn made gold much more appealing by comparison, yielding a less-than-flattering chart for the greenback.

India’s Enduring Love for Gold Remains Strong

India, the world’s second-largest consumer of gold after China, keeps showing resolute demand. In 2024, the country used up 802.8 metric tonnes of gold, an uptick from the 761 tonnes tallied the prior year. The overall worth of this demand shot up to INR 5.15 lakh crore, per numbers from the World Gold Council.

The cultural importance of gold in India runs very deep. Gold is often seen as a store of value that can be passed down through the generations. When families experience times of financial distress, say, to fund a medical emergency or to pay an educational expense, they often try to use gold as a means to secure a loan. And because prices have been going up, gold-backed loans have only become more appealing since the opportunity is there to use easy digital platforms to access them and, of course, because gold is always said to be good for securing a loan.

As costs rise, the need for gold loans is gathering speed. With the economy taking a hit and inflation not expected to go away anytime soon, people are using gold as an asset they can both depend on and lend against. This trend only seems likely to increase, especially if instability in the geopolitical realm and devalued currencies stay in play.

April 23, 2025
Why Gold Remains a Smart Investment in 2025

2025 has been anything but stable. Reciprocal tariffs have caused tremors in global trade, and investors have turned to the yellow metal as a reliable haven. The US–China imbroglio goes on and on, and it has supercharged gold demand, especially after President Trump imposed a steep 125% duty on Chinese imports. Though we’ve had a 90-day pause that’s allowing some breathing room for traders, the gold market is gunning to go higher. Yesterday, it closed at an all-time high of $1,292.60 per ounce.

Central Banks and Institutional Confidence

Gold has consistently been attracting central bank buying from across the world. In recent years, their annual purchases have exceeded an eye-popping 1,000 tonnes. And they haven’t slowed down this year. Take none other than the People’s Bank of China, for example. It has marked another five straight months of buying gold. Heavy amounts of it. Check out the inflow numbers at the Gold ETFs where the Chinese go to buy their gold.

Economic Worries and Rate Cuts

Stagflation in the US, an uncomfortable mix of high inflation and low growth, has many people worried these days. Gold has generally done very well historically when we’ve had this kind of economic backdrop. The overall expectation is that the Fed is going to cut rates two more times this year, which is dollar-negative and gold-positive. In fact, gold in 2024 has done the opposite of what it was supposed to do: go down when the stock market is going up and the dollar is doing well. Instead, it has gone up.

Volatility, Debt, and Safe Haven Appeal

So far in 2025, the stock market has had a hard time, and investors are pushing toward stable assets as equity volatility increases. The US national debt now exceeds 36 trillion dollars (INR 2,995 lakh crore), which only makes gold all the more appealing (as a hedge, at least). And it’s not just the US national debt; a range of geopolitical risks from Europe to the Middle East has made gold attractive for hedging. Today, gold isn’t just a hedge; it’s the core of many diversified portfolios.

Gold Forecasts Remain Bullish

International banks are steadily adjusting their forecasts for the price of gold, and not in a downward direction. They began the year forecasting a starting price of $2,650. Then things got interesting. In a matter of days, they touched $3,200, and prices have found support at just under $3,000. Forecasts for the short term range two benchmarks apart: J.P. Morgan’s modest $3,000 gold price to Deutsche Bank’s far loftier $3,700 price.

And forecasts have gotten even more interesting. At the top of the list, projections have reached $8,000. In what seems a remarkable communique, Swiss Asia Capital, which has long forecast gold appreciation, is now more than doubling its already high figure to call for $8,000 gold. Insurance isn’t cheap, but in this age of global instability, buying it may be essential.

April 14, 2025
Rahul Joseph on How White Gold is Revolutionising Gold Buying with Transparency, Technology, and a Customer-Centric Approach

In this insightful interaction, Rahul Joseph, Founder and CEO of White Gold, shares the journey of transforming the disorganised gold-buying market with a transparent, customer-first approach. He discusses the company’s growth since 2017, expanding from 5 to over 50 stores across Karnataka and Kerala. Joseph explains how services like advanced valuation technology and cashless payments make White Gold stand out. He also talks about rising gold prices, shifting consumer behaviors, and the challenges White Gold faces in expanding its presence and reaching new markets.

StartupTalky: What inspired you to start White Gold, and how has your vision evolved since its inception in 2017?

Mr. Joseph: The gap in the gold-buying market motivated the inception of White Gold. The market itself was disorganised, which highlighted the need for a more effective way of transacting gold that prioritises customers. The goal was to devise a viable system for customers who wanted to sell their gold under transparent circumstances while avoiding any stigmas attached to gold selling.

Since we started in 2017, our outlook has changed dramatically. From 5 stores, we have grown to more than 50 stores today, spread across the states of Karnataka and Kerala. It is this passion for invention and customer service that has put us at the top of the industry today. In 2019, rebranding allowed us to further our quest of providing a unique, efficient, and professional gold-selling experience.

StartupTalky: How has White Gold’s customer-first approach contributed to its rapid growth in the gold-buying industry?

Mr. Joseph: White Gold’s rapid growth can be largely attributed to our core principles of honesty, integrity, and transparency. We ensure fair valuations, straightforward transactions, and consistent pricing (i.e. MCX-led live gold rates), which helps us build trust with every customer. Our stores are designed to be visually appealing and welcoming, creating a positive atmosphere that enhances the customer experience.

The success of our customer-first approach is reflected in our strong word-of-mouth referrals and repeat customers. We have built lasting relationships by consistently prioritising the needs and satisfaction of our clients.

StartupTalky: What makes White Gold’s gold liquidation process unique, and how do you ensure customer satisfaction with the experience?

Mr. Joseph: Our gold liquidation process is designed to be exceptional, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and a strong commitment to transparency at every step. We prioritise customer convenience by offering instant payment options through secure, cashless digital transactions. This not only enhances the overall experience but also ensures that the process is seamless and time-efficient for our clients.

To guarantee precise and accurate valuations, we incorporate advanced German spectrometers into our procedures, which utilise cutting-edge techniques to assess the quality and purity of gold accurately. In addition, we feature a live gold rate display, allowing customers to stay fully informed about current market prices, which empowers them to make well-informed decisions.

Customer satisfaction is the cornerstone of our approach. Throughout the valuation process, we provide comprehensive explanations of our methods and criteria. Our dedicated and well-trained staff members take the time to engage with each customer, ensuring they feel comfortable and knowledgeable about the services they are receiving. By fostering an environment of trust and clarity, we aim to instill confidence in our clients, making their experience as positive and reassuring as possible.

StartupTalky: With gold prices expected to cross Rs 1 lakh by 2025, what impact do you foresee on the market and consumer behaviour?

Mr. Joseph: As gold prices increase, we expect a rise in sales driven by liquidity, as many customers aim to capitalise on the higher market value. Individuals may opt to convert their idle gold into cash for various reasons, including urgent financial needs or to diversify their investments.

In this context, the demand for dependable and trustworthy gold-buying services, such as White Gold, is likely to grow. As consumers become more informed about their options, they will increasingly seek professional and transparent services to ensure they receive the best value for their gold.

StartupTalky: How does White Gold manage gold price fluctuations to maintain consistent liquidation rates and customer satisfaction?

Mr. Joseph: To effectively handle price fluctuations, we utilise a dynamic pricing strategy that allows us to update our rates on our website regularly. This approach ensures that our customers have access to real-time pricing that accurately reflects current market conditions, offering them the most competitive and fair rates.

Additionally, we prioritise transparency in our valuation process, which is essential for building trust with our customers, especially in times of changing gold prices. We take the time to educate our clients about how market fluctuations can affect gold valuations. This knowledge empowers them to feel secure in the fairness of the valuation process and confident that their gold is being assessed appropriately.

StartupTalky: Are customers increasingly using gold as a liquidity option, or is there still more focus on holding it as a long-term investment?

Mr. Joseph: Gold has long been considered a stable long-term investment, particularly in rural regions. However, there is a noticeable shift occurring in how gold is being utilised, with an increasing number of individuals viewing it as a liquidity option. This trend is especially evident during financial emergencies or when quick access to cash is necessary. While gold continues to be a favored investment for many, a growing segment of customers is seeking to liquidate their gold holdings to address immediate financial requirements.

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StartupTalky: What steps is White Gold taking to ensure sustainability and ethical practices in sourcing and handling gold?

Mr. Joseph: At White Gold, our focus is on ethical sourcing and sustainability in the gold-buying process. We prioritise working with customers who can provide legitimate documentation, which helps us ensure that the gold we purchase is free from unethical origins. To maintain accuracy and integrity in our valuations, we utilize certified German spectrometers and calibrated weighing scales.

Moreover, we regularly conduct training programs for our staff to reinforce the importance of ethical practices in every transaction. This commitment fosters a culture of trust and integrity within our operations, ensuring that our customers receive fair and transparent services.

StartupTalky: How has the introduction of a cashless payment system transformed White Gold’s operations and customer experience?

Mr. Joseph: The implementation of a cashless payment system has brought about significant changes to our operations. Transactions are now executed more quickly, securely, and seamlessly, resulting in an overall more efficient experience for customers. This system has also contributed to lowering operational costs and reducing the risks linked to cash handling.

For customers, the cashless payment option enhances convenience and safety, especially for high-value transactions. Additionally, this transition has improved our brand image, positioning us as a modern and tech-driven enterprise that prioritises customer satisfaction and security.

StartupTalky: What are the plans for expanding White Gold’s network, and what challenges do you see in this growth journey?

Mr. Joseph: We have exciting plans for expansion, with a goal to open 10 additional stores in Karnataka to consolidate our leadership position. We also aim to expand into other southern states in India.

However, there are challenges to navigate, especially competition from unorganised players in new markets. Additionally, educating customers in these regions about White Gold’s proposition and the professional approach undertaken to scale the services will be crucial. We will also need to adapt our operations to local preferences and behaviors to ensure our continued success.

StartupTalky: Gold has always been seen as a valuable asset, but with rising prices and other investment opportunities available, how do you think people are now viewing and selling their gold?

Mr. Joseph: With gold prices on the rise, we are seeing an increasing inclination among consumers to sell their gold for liquidity purposes. This is especially true as more people diversify into other investment options like mutual funds and stocks.

White Gold provides a trusted platform for individuals looking to monetise their gold assets, offering them the best value in a transparent and professional manner. We also educate customers on how to get the most out of their gold, ensuring they understand the full value of what they are selling.

StartupTalky: How do you see White Gold positioning itself to become a prominent player in the gold-buying industry in India?

Mr. Joseph: We are positioning White Gold to become the largest organised gold-buying player in South India. Through strategic investments in digital advertising and regional sports teams, we are working to expand our visibility and reach.

As we grow, we will continue to focus on technology, transparency, and a customer-first approach to differentiate ourselves from other industry players in the overall gold sector. By expanding our footprint and catering to the customer’s needs, we aim to cement White Gold’s position as a leader in the gold-buying industry.

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February 1, 2025
Understanding the Benefits of Gold Leasing: How It Can Help You Unlock The Hidden Value of Your Gold

This article has been contributed by Amol Bansal, Founder of MyGold.

India is home to an extraordinary quantity of gold, with households and temples collectively holding over 25,000 tonnes. Despite this immense wealth, much of it remains unused, yielding no financial returns. Gold leasing provides a way to mobilize this asset, transforming it into a productive resource while maintaining its cultural and emotional significance.

Gold has historically been regarded as a valuable asset and a cultural emblem. However, its full financial utility often remains unrealized. Gold leasing has emerged as a viable financial strategy, offering individuals and businesses a method to derive value from dormant gold holdings. This innovative approach enables owners to benefit from their assets without parting with them.

Leasing gold entails lending it to financial entities, refiners, or jewelers in exchange for fixed returns, such as monetary payments, interest, or equivalent benefits. Ownership remains intact, while the lessee utilizes the gold for jewellery manufacturing or trade. Unlike selling, this method allows holders to preserve their assets while simultaneously generating returns.

How Gold Leasing Functions

The process of leasing gold is systematic and structured. Initially, the gold is assessed for purity and weight at dedicated centers or through specialized services that offer doorstep evaluations. A formal agreement is established once the asset is verified, detailing the terms, duration, and expected returns. During the lease period, the lessor earns income, which may include compounded benefits that enhance the value of the gold over time. Upon completion of the term, the asset is returned in its original state.

Modern leasing platforms enhance this process by incorporating conveniences such as insured storage facilities, real-time access to gold, and secure redemption mechanisms. These advancements provide participants with a seamless and reassuring experience.

Relevance of Gold Leasing in Current Times

The increasing value of gold has bolstered its appeal as a financial tool. Recent data from the World Gold Council highlights this trend, showing that India’s gold purchases in the third quarter of 2024 amounted to INR 1.65 lakh crore, marking a 52% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge occurred despite a 28 percent rise in global gold prices, underlining the resilience of domestic demand.

Further illustrating the importance of gold, the Reserve Bank of India acquired 73 tonnes between January and November 2024, bringing its total reserves to 876 tonnes. These acquisitions positioned the RBI as the second-largest buyer globally, reflecting the strategic and economic importance of the metal. Such developments underscore gold leasing’s potential as a mechanism to leverage an invaluable asset.

Advantages of Leasing Gold

Gold leasing offers a spectrum of benefits. It provides a means to generate income while retaining ownership, enabling holders to capitalize on their assets without relinquishing them. The liquidity derived from leasing serves as a practical solution for financial needs, avoiding the necessity of loans or outright sales.

For businesses, particularly those in the jewellery sector, leasing eliminates the requirement for significant upfront investments. This approach reduces inventory expenses and enhances operational efficiency. Moreover, the risks associated with leasing are minimal compared to other investment avenues, as agreements typically guarantee the asset’s security.

Some platforms offer the added advantage of compounding returns, where the weight of the leased gold increases over time. For instance, leasing 100 grams today could result in a substantially larger amount after a decade and a half. This feature makes leasing a compelling option for long-term financial growth.

Gold’s Role in Indian Traditions

In India, gold exceeds its monetary value, holding a prominent place in cultural and religious practices. It plays an important role during festivals such as Deepavali. According to All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) Chairman Saiyam Mehra, Dhanteras in 2024 saw a 15-20% increase in gold value, noting that gold sales were of about INR 16,000 crore and the full jewellery sector saw INR 18,000- INR 20,000 crore sales. Weddings and other significant occasions also contribute to the demand, with gold symbolizing prosperity and heritage.

The practice of leasing ensures that gold continues to fulfill its traditional roles while becoming a source of financial security. By enabling owners to maintain their heirlooms and generate value, this model aligns with the cultural reverence for the metal.

Practical Applications of Leasing

Gold leasing serves diverse beneficiaries. Families with substantial gold reserves can convert their holdings into a source of passive income. Rather than leaving gold unused in safes, owners can ensure it contributes to their financial well-being.

Jewellery manufacturers, who rely heavily on gold as a raw material, find leasing a cost-effective alternative to bulk purchases. This approach reduces their need for capital investments, improving inventory management and cash flow.

Industries involved in manufacturing or trade also benefit significantly. By leasing rather than purchasing, these businesses can allocate resources more efficiently, enhancing overall productivity.

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Innovations Enhancing the Leasing Process

Advancements in technology and service delivery have streamlined the gold leasing process, making it accessible and convenient. Some platforms offer doorstep evaluations and consultations, addressing the common concerns of safety and transparency. Real-time tracking systems allow users to monitor their assets and returns, fostering trust and confidence.

Partial leasing options further enhance flexibility, enabling owners to lease only a portion of their holdings while retaining items with sentimental value. These innovations cater to a wider audience, ensuring that gold leasing is both practical and appealing.

Broader Implications for the Economy

Gold leasing carries significant economic benefits. India imports between 700 and 900 tonnes of gold annually. By utilizing even a fraction of the gold already present within the country, leasing can reduce dependence on imports, conserving foreign exchange reserves. The jewellery and bullion industries, which are vital to the economy, benefit from an accessible and cost-effective supply of raw materials through leasing. This approach supports job creation and boosts industrial output.

At a macroeconomic level, integrating dormant gold into active circulation contributes to the country’s financial inclusion goals. By mobilizing a traditionally static asset, leasing aligns with India’s vision for sustainable economic growth.

Important Considerations

While gold leasing offers numerous advantages, careful evaluation is essential. Ensuring the purity and authenticity of gold is critical to avoid discrepancies. Partnering with reputable institutions or platforms with proven track records minimizes risks and guarantees reliability.

Understanding the terms and conditions of the lease agreement is equally important. Factors such as duration, expected returns, and redemption policies should be reviewed thoroughly. Flexible options, including partial leasing and early withdrawal, add to the convenience and usability of this financial strategy.

Consulting with financial advisors to understand potential tax implications can help individuals make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of leasing.

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January 29, 2025
What are the new Gold Hallmarking Guidelines and Why are they made mandatory by the government

Gold is considered to be a safe haven for the majority of the Indian community and the households would consider investing in Gold and prefer investing in the yellow metal than any other asset class. The Indian households consider it to be the safest form of investment and using the jewellery gives them a pride in the society. Gold is much more than an investment option for an Indian household. In this article let’s look at the new gold hallmarking guidelines.

Gold Hallmarking – Latest News
What are the new Gold Hallmarking Guidelines?
Why Gold Hallmarking has been made mandatory?
Hallmarking centers in India
What about Existing and Old Jewelry?
FAQ

Gold Hallmarking – Latest News

The Union Ministry or the consumer affairs, food and public distribution had conveyed on 16 June 2021 that Hallmarking on gold jewelry and other related items is going to be mandatory from the proposed date.

It is conveyed that the ministry had also issued particular guidelines in regards to hallmarking based on a lot of consultations with the stakeholders. The Government of India has passed on the message that the initial implementation of the guidelines will be a phase wise plan covering around 256 districts as part of the plan.

Piyush Goyal who is the Union Minister of India had conveyed through Twitter that mandatory hallmarking in 256 districts will be implemented from the date of 16 June 2021 as a part of continuing the Government’s plan to try and achieve better protection and satisfaction for the customers.

What are the new Gold Hallmarking Guidelines?

According to the new guidelines laid down by the Government, the jewelers who have an annual turnover of up to INR 40 lakh will be exempted from the hallmarking rule that is mandatory.

The release had conveyed the message that hallmarking would be initially started with 256 districts of the country. The 256 districts are said to have marking centers. The release also added that the jewellers who have a turnover of up to INR 40 lakh will be exempted from the mandatory hallmarking.

The release also conveyed that there will be an exemption for the jewelries such as export and re-import of jewellery as per the Trade Policy of Government of India – Jewelry for Government, Approved B2B domestic exhibitions and jewelry for international trade exhibitions from mandatory hallmarking.

The ministry conveyed that Gold of additional carats such as 20, 23 and 24 will be allowed for hallmarking. Consumer items such as watches, fountain pens and other special types of jewelries such as Kundan, Polki and Jadau will be exempted from the hallmarking.

The Government has conveyed that in a move to provide an additional set of time to the manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of gold jewelry there would not be any penalties implemented until the end of August 2021. Jewelers will be able to buy back the old jewellery from the customers that do not have a hallmark.

The old jewelry can be hallmarked by the jewelers as it is if that is possible by the jeweler or they can melt it and then get it hallmarked.

Hallmarked Gold

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Why Gold Hallmarking has been made mandatory?

Under the Hallmarking scheme of the Bureau of India standards (BIS), the jewelers are registered in order to sell the hallmarked jewellery and recognize testing and hallmarking centers. The BIS hallmarking regulations were implemented from the date 14 June 2018.

Hallmarking will enable and help the consumers to make the right choice while buying a jewellery and will also help in saving them from any sort of unnecessary confusion while buying gold. The ministry had conveyed that as of now only around 30% of the Indian gold jewelry is hallmarked.

This step is expected to make India as a leading gold market center in the world and hallmarking of jewellery and artifacts is necessary to enhance the credibility of Gold jewellery and the satisfaction of customers through the assurance of a third party for the marked purity or fitness of gold for consumer protection.

Hallmarking centers in India

It is to be seen that there is an increase in the number of Assaying and hallmarking centers in the country of up to 25 % and the ministry added that the number of the AH centers have increased from a count of 495 to 945 in the period of last 5 years.

The ministry added that as of now there are around 940 active Assaying and hallmarking centers and in that around 84 AHCs are set up by the subsidy scheme that was provided by the Government in various districts.

The assaying and Hallmarking centers has the capacity to mark around 1500 articles on a daily basis and the Government has conveyed that the AHCs has the capacity to hallmark around 14 crore articles on a yearly basis.

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What about Existing and Old Jewelry?

The consumers who possess the old jewellery will not have to be worried regarding the new hallmarking guidelines. The newly issued guidelines are only for sellers and not the individual owners or the retail owners of the jewelry.

The objective of the Government is to increase the credibility and the quality of the Gold purchases. The Government has conveyed that they would be forming a committee that will represent all stakeholders, revenue officials and legal experts in order to into the various problems that may possibly come into effect during the implementation of the scheme.

Conclusion

This move from India will be recognized in the world market and the country would be recognized in the global market. India has around 4 lakh jewelers according to the World Gold Council and out of these only 35,879 jewelers have been BIS certified.

FAQ

Which Hallmark is used in gold?

The BIS hallmark is used for gold hallmarking in India. It certifies that the piece of jewellery conforms to a set of standards laid by the Bureau of Indian Standards, the national standards organization of India.

What is the meaning of Hallmark Gold?

Hallmark gold is nothing but the certified gold. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) stamp a certificate of purity and fineness of gold which is called as hallmarking.

How can you tell if gold is Hallmark?

Check the hallmark sign that consists – The BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) mark denoted by a triangle, the caratage (22K915) showing the purity, the mark of the jeweller and that of the AHC and year of hallmarking.

June 18, 2021
What is Stablecoin and How is it better than Bitcoin

Stablecoins are gaining popularity in the recent years. As of May 2020 Stablecoins, were worth USD 10 billion. In certain countries like Brazil, people are preferring stable coins to their national currencies. That is during uncertain economic conditions. Let’s look at the below article for the meaning of stable coins and is stable coins better than bitcoins.

What are Stablecoins?
List of Stablecoins
Real-world Applications of Stablecoins
Why is it better than bitcoin?
FAQ

What are Stablecoins?

Stablecoins are a new group of cryptocurrencies. The name itself gives the meaning which says stable. Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies that attempt to offer stability in the price movement. They are backed by a reserve asset.

It is a cryptocurrency that is tied to an outside asset such as U.S Dollar, Gold, or any other asset to stabilize the price. Stablecoins have gained fiction as they attempt to offer the best of both the worlds such as the privacy of payments of cryptocurrencies and the instant processing plus the volatility-free stable valuations of fiat currencies.

The popularity of stable coins has risen so far that the headlines of the crypto market in recent months have Stablecoins in it. They are primarily developed to minimize the volatility of the price.

List of Stablecoins

Fiat-collateralized Stablecoins

This type of Stablecoins is the ones which have its underlying value derived from a fiat currency or in simple words the Stablecoins are pegged towards certain country’s currency such as U.S Dollar, Euro, Yen, etc.

One of the well-known fiat collateralized stable currency is Tether which is shortly known as USDT. This Stablecoin is pegged to the value of the U.S dollar in the ratio 1:1. This means that 1 Tether is equal to the value of 1 U.S Dollar.

Another example of a well-known Stablecoin is Gemini which is shortly known as GUSD. This Stablecoin is pegged to the value of the U.S dollar in the ratio 1:1. This means that 1 Gemini is equal to the value of 1 U.S Dollar.

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Non-Collateralized stablecoins

Non-collateralized Stablecoins are not backed by any asset classes. These Stablecoins run on certain algorithms which will manage the supply and demand of these coins and keeps the prices stable. Some examples for Non-Collateralized Stablecoins are CarbonUSD which is also known as Carbon and kUSD which is also known as Kowala.

Types of Stablecoins

Commodity-Collateralized Stablecoins

Some Stablecoins are backed to certain precious metals such as gold, metals, or commodities such as oil. These Stablecoins are known as commodity-collateralized Stablecoins.

One of the well-known commodity-collateralized Stablecoin is Digix that has its short form as DGX which is backed by the commodity Gold. This means that 1 DGX is equal to 1 gram of Gold on the ETH network.

One of the other examples of commodity-collateralized Stablecoins is Tiberius Coin which has its short form as TCX. The Stablecoins are backed by the combination of 7 different metals which is commonly used in the development of hardware technologies. The idea behind pegging it towards the 7 metals is as these metals are extensively used to make technology will indirectly increase the value of TCX.

Crypto-Collateralized Stablecoins

These are stable coins which are pegged against different cryptocurrencies. Crypto-collateralized Stablecoins will always be in the 1:1 ratio through over-collateralization.

BitUSD is a well-known Stablecoin which is crypto-collateralized token, that is collateralized towards a cryptocurrency named Bitshares.

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Real-world Applications of Stablecoins

Day-to-day currency

Stablecoins can be used as fiat currency that can be used as a mainstream payment. It has an additional benefit of being a virtual coin. It is legally backed and secured as well. These are also very useful for overseas payment as no conversions of fiat currencies and can be used irrespective of the country or place.

In streamlining P2P payments

You can use Stablecoins as an ideal payment option for loan payments, rent payments, subscriptions and more as it is irreversible, traceable and transparent.

Protection from local currency crashes

On an average the prices of goods keep doubling every few weeks. Stablecoins are used as a replacement to maintain fiat currencies from crashing in value.

Stablecoins will offer notable solution to all these problems by allowing them to quickly exchange their fiat currency into a stable currency. Thus, it prevents them from further price drops.

Why is it better than bitcoin?

Stablecoins provide stability and it is one of the major reasons why it is better than bitcoins as the world looks at stability. Stablecoins also ensure faster transfer of money across different locations. Stablecoins can also replace fiat currencies in certain countries where their currencies are unstable.

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FAQ

What is an example of a Stablecoin?

Tether (USDT) is a Stablecoin, So named because it “tethers” itself to the value of the USD, Tether is the most well-known Stablecoin in the crypto world. It’s backed by gold, traditional currency and cash equivalents.

What is Stablecoin used for?

Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies that attempt to peg their market value to some external reference. Stablecoins may be pegged to a currency like the U.S. dollar or to a commodity’s price such as gold.

Can Stablecoins increase in value?

Fiat-backed stablecoins are considered to be the most stable of stablecoins, but this stability doesn’t make them a very profitable long-term investment and their value is unlikely to increase significantly over time.

Conclusion

We may see stablecoins demand increasing in the future and will even be able to see much more stablecoins coming up in the future.

April 17, 2021
Why Gold Prices are falling in February 2021?

Gold has always been a safe harbor for investors. Low volatility makes it a reliable investment option. The glittering metal has a prominent place in the Indian households. Gold in India isn’t just an investment but a tradition. It not only signifies wealth but also is a matter of prestige for many Indians. Indian festivities and weddings are incomplete without the exchange of gold. It has dominated equity and real estate investments as it has a lower exposure to risk and has comparatively better returns.

Gold Price’s graph

Why Gold prices are falling in February 2021?
Global significance of Gold
Central Financial Systems and Gold
Factors driving Gold Prices
History of Gold rates in India
How Pandemic has affected Gold prices?
World Gold Council
Gold prices across India
FAQs

Why Gold prices are falling in February 2021?

Gold prices are propelling downwards since the end of January 2021. Gold rates have hit a low in all the major cities in India. On the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), gold prices dropped by Rs 457 to hit Rs 46,390 per 10 gram, after the government announced a cut in the import duty on precious metals. Notably, the customs duty on gold and silver was reduced to 7.5%. So far, gold has witnessed a fall of more than 2%, and has dipped more than Rs 7000 from all time high in August last year. In the previous trade, the precious metal had closed at Rs 46,847 per 10 grams after a fall of Rs 661.

On the global front, gold prices decked to $1830 from $2200. Gold is traded against the US dollar. As the dollar gains, prices of gold reduce since gold becomes expensive in other currencies. Political and economic activities in the USA have paved way for the gains in value of US dollar. Gold prices and the US dollar are inversely proportional, because the yellow metal is dollar dominated. When the value of dollar increases compared to other currencies around the world, the price of gold tends to decrease in the US dollar terms. A falling dollar increases the value of currencies in other countries, including the prices of commodities like gold resulting in increase in the price of gold and vice versa.

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Global significance of Gold

Worldwide, gold is seen as a commodity with innate value. Gold remains, and will continue to remain precious due to its rarity and ability to create jewelry and other objects. It has also been an investment option for many investors. Unlike any other commodity, gold is largely influenced by the track run of the economy. Over the course of history, gold prices seem to counteract the fluctuations in an economic cycle.

Central Financial Systems and Gold

Global gold reserves have been recorded to 33,000 tons, almost one-fifth of the total amount of gold mined. In the last decade, many national banks have become net buyers of gold reserves.

Central banks have gold reserves for many reasons: to pacify risks, to hedge against inflation and promote economic stability. According to a report published by the World Gold Council, central banks have purchased 668 tons of gold in 2019.

The Central bank of America is said to have the largest gold reserve with 8,133 tons of gold in its vault, valued at $10.9 billion dollars. The Reserve Bank of India is ninth on the list of top central banks holding gold reserves. India has increased its Gold reserves by 22.7 tons in 2020 and as of today holds 668 tons of the yellow metal in its vaults.

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Factors driving Gold Prices

As noted earlier, gold is dominated by the US dollar. A surge in the dollar keeps the gold rate lower and more controlled, while a weaker US dollar takes the gold price higher through increase in demand.

The amount of gold held by the central banks around the world also caters in determining the factors driving the gold prices. Every Central Financial system has gold vaults to protect itself from inflation and pacify losses if any. When central banks purchase gold, it affects the supply and demand of the country’s economy resulting in changes that are inflationary in nature.

In 2019, 4400 tons of gold was demanded by the jewelry industry. Jewelry and industrial demands decide which way the gold prices go. India, China and the USA are the largest consumers of gold jewelry in terms of volume.

Jewelry accounts for highest demand for gold all around the world.

Most investors have turned to gold as an investment especially during times of economic recession, political instability or unrest due to global movements. Gold, compared to equity and real estate, is considered a much safer option in terms of returns.

Gold mining and extraction is an important factor in determining the prices of gold all over the world. China, Australia, USA and Russia are the major players that are actively involved in the mining process. Hazards faced by the miners makes it more challenging to acquire gold. These challenges add more cost to gold mining or production resulting in higher gold prices.

History of Gold rates in India

Gold has seen huge appreciation in its value and especially in India, this value is very significant since the country has a comprehensive political and economic history. The annual average price of gold (24carat gold per 10 grams) in 1964 was Rs 63.25. A few decades later in the 1990’s the price ranged from Rs 3,200 to Rs 4,400. In the early 2000’s, gold was trending at Rs 5,850. The next decade that is 2008 to 2016 saw gold prices range between Rs 12,800 to Rs 28,263. 2020 saw all time high in gold’s value at Rs 48,651.

How Pandemic has affected Gold prices?

The restrictions imposed by governments have caused temporary closures of mines. Lack of supply and transportation have an overall impact on the pricing. Among other world crises, Covid 19 has seen the largest surge in gold prices. After the first covid case in China, the annual demand rose by 38%. Following the Covid-19 crises, there is greater uncertainty in the global market and has propelled the gold prices.

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World Gold Council

The World Gold Council, with a purpose to stimulate and sustain the demand of gold, provides industry leadership and is the global authority on the gold market.

WGC is the market development organization for the gold industry and its purpose is to put gold as investment in the frontier. It strives to make gold mainstream against global, political and economic backdrops. The organization has launched a web tool called Qaurum, to help investors understand the drivers of gold’s performance. It specifically demonstrates how gold behaves in various macroeconomic regions.

Gold prices across India

Gold price in India today is Rs 47000 for 24 carat gold per 10 grams and Rs 46000 for 22 carat gold per 10 grams. This value varies across the country’s major cities. Gold price (24 carat gold per 10 grams) in the country’s capital, Delhi, is Rs 56,020, in Bangalore and Hyderabad its Rs 48,290, and in Mumbai and Pune its Rs 47000. At the moment, Kerala has the lowest gold rate in India which is Rs 46,950.

Conclusion

Gold is a precious metal. It has emotional, cultural and financial value and people across the globe buy gold for different reasons. These reasons have been drawn from various socio-cultural factors, local and global market conditions and macroeconomic factors.

For centuries it has been a safe haven for developed and developing economies as a hedge against inflation. Economic and global crises have widely determined the prices of gold and will continue to do so. Financial experts believe that gold will remain investors’ favorite and for the likes of the glittering metal, will surely appreciate in value.

FAQs

What is the present price of gold?

In India, the highest price of gold is Rs 47000 (24 carat gold per 10 grams) and lowest price is Rs 46,950. In the global market the price of gold is $1830 dollars.

Why gold prices are decreasing?

Gold prices depend on how the US dollar rallies in the global market. US dollar has gained in value and this has caused the decline in gold prices.

Is it a good time to buy gold now?

This is the right time to buy gold since prices have come down by Rs 7300 from its record high prices.

What will gold be worth in the next decade?

The World Bank predicts that gold prices will increase by 50% in the next 10 years.

What is the highest price of gold in history?

On August 7, 2020 gold hit its highest ever mark valued at $2,067.15. Later, during the Covid 19 pandemic it was valued at $2000 dollars.

February 16, 2021