Even in the most hostile cases, gold has performed better than other strategic assets. It is frequently purchased as part of a portfolio diversification strategy to lessen losses from other asset classes. Investors begin investing in gold in different forms after realising its potential. In addition to being purchased in physical form, gold can be invested in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs). These bonds are a better option than actual gold because they provide periodic interest and market value at maturity. Before you start thinking about SGBs as a possible investment, let’s learn how to invest in SGB online.
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What Are Sovereign Gold Bonds?
Indian government-issued sovereign gold bonds (SGBs) are financial products that let investors purchase gold in a form other than physical possession. SGBs are measured in grams of gold, and the market price of gold determines how much they are worth. Without having to worry about the storage and security of physical gold, these bonds provide a safe and affordable way to invest in gold.
Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), resident Indian individuals, trusts, educational institutions, and non-profit organisations can all purchase SGBs. In a fiscal year, you or HUF may invest in SGB as little as one gram. At the same time, the trusts and other similar entities may invest up to four kilograms of gold. SGBs offer an annual interest rate of 2.5% and have an eight-year maturity period with an option to exit after the fifth year.
The investor receives the gold market price that is in effect at the time of redemption, calculated using the gold price on the redemption date. SGBs are eligible to be used as loan collateral and can be traded on stock exchanges.
What Is the Working Process of SGBs?
The government of India issues sovereign gold bonds (SGBs) by letting investors purchase gold in an electronic form. SGBs operate as follows in India:
- On behalf of the Government of India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releases SGBs in periodic tranches throughout the year.
- Individuals who are citizens of India, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), trusts, academic institutions, and charitable organisations are all eligible to invest in SGBs.
- Investors can subscribe to SGBs through designated post offices, scheduled commercial banks, and stock exchanges.
- Investors can apply for a minimum of 1 gram and a maximum of 4 kg of gold in each tranche during the subscription period, which is typically open for a few days at a time.
- SGBs are priced in relation to the current gold market price. Before each tranche, the RBI announces the issue price based on the average closing price of gold for the final three working days of the week prior to the subscription period.
- They can choose to leave after the fifth year of their eight-year term. Early redemption is only permitted, though, on interest payment dates.
- These provide a 2.5% annual interest rate that is paid on the investment amount every six months. The investor’s bank account is immediately credited with the interest amount.
- The investor receives the current gold market price at maturity, calculated using the gold price on the redemption date. The investor’s bank account receives a direct credit for the redemption amount.
- SGBs have a limited trading window on stock exchanges, after which they must be held until maturity. They may also be used as loan collateral.
How to Buy Sovereign Gold Bonds?
Are you trying to find a safe and affordable gold investment option? You’re in luck because it’s incredibly simple and convenient to purchase Indian sovereign gold bonds (SGBs) online.
Here is how to invest in SGB online:
- Log into your mobile banking app or online banking website.
- Your banking app should have an ‘Investment’ or ‘Gold Bond’ section.
- Choose the Sovereign Gold Bond option, then enter your desired investment amount. The minimum and maximum investments in gold are 1 gram and 4 kg, respectively, per person and fiscal year.
- Verify your investment’s specifics, including the gold bond’s cost and the date of maturity.
- Use your bank account to pay for your investment.
- And voila! You just made an online investment in Indian sovereign gold bonds. It’s that simple!
Following your investment, your bank will send you a confirmation letter outlining all the specifics of your transaction. The confirmation includes the quantity of SGBs you were given, the issue price, and the maturity date. If you want to cash out before maturity, you can keep track of your investment online.
What Advantages Come with Buying Sovereign Gold Bonds?
The following are some advantages you get when you buy Sovereign Gold Bonds:
Safe and Secure Investment
As it is issued by RBI, it is considered to be a safe and promising investment option. They are less risky than other gold investment options because the Indian government’s creditworthiness supports them.
Assurance of Profits
SGBs offer a fixed interest rate of 2.5% per annum on the investment amount. In addition, if the market price of gold rises while the bond is outstanding, the investor may also realise capital gains.
Simple to Sell and Buy
You can buy and sell these bonds through the stock exchanges if you know how to invest in SGB online. They can also be purchased from specific post offices and banks.
Tax Advantages
Investing in SGBs can give you tax benefits. The interest earned on the bonds is taxable as per the income tax laws. SGB capital gains are not subject to capital gains tax if held until maturity.
No Space or Security Threats
When you invest in physical gold, you need a safe space to keep it. The need for physical storage and security is not necessary if SGBs are held in a Demat account, though.
Transparency
The current market price of gold, which is open and widely accessible, determines the price of SGBs. The price of gold and the market value of an investor’s holdings are both simple to follow.
Conclusion
SGBs have an eight-year term, a 2.50% annual interest rate that is paid on a half-yearly basis, and are simple to buy and manage. Every purchase by an individual is limited to a total of 4 kg per fiscal year and 20 kg in the case of a trust. A PAN card is the only document required for the purchase of SGBs; without it, no investment in these bonds is allowed. What are you still holding out for? You know how to invest in SGB online. So start investing now. Online Sovereign Gold Bond investments are now available in India. As gold prices rise, your investment will rise as well.
