Gold ETFs in India now manage ₹1.86 lakh crore across 26 schemes, with more than 1.25 crore investor folios, and they drew ₹4,451 crore of net inflows in September 2026 alone. These funds trade on exchanges and reflect domestic gold prices, less expenses and tracking differences. While exploring the best Gold ETFs in India, investors can assess expense ratios, liquidity, tracking error, and fund size, among others, to get an insight into how the various schemes differ from each other.
Best Gold ETFs in India: Top Funds Compared (2026)
The table below lists five Gold ETFs that investors may compare.
| Gold ETF | Symbol | Market Cap (₹ cr) | Close Price (₹) | 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Gold ETF | HDFCMFGETF | 23,899.78 | 125.50 | 27.41% | 35.34% | 25.11% |
| Nippon India ETF Gold BeES | GOLDBEES | 56,981.58 | 121.42 | 20.75% | 34.91% | 24.24% |
| UTI Gold ETF | UTIGOLD | 4,406.26 | 123.62 | 21.63% | 35.75% | 24.71% |
| Kotak Gold ETF | KOTAKGOLD | 14,472.91 | 122.62 | 21.08% | 35.14% | 24.52% |
| SBI Gold ETF | SBIGETS | 26,466.16 | 125.25 | 20.90% | 35.11% | 24.40% |
Overview of Key Schemes
- HDFC Gold ETF: Managed by HDFC Mutual Fund, the scheme aims to track domestic gold prices, subject to tracking error.
- Nippon India ETF Gold BeES: This scheme is run by Nippon India Mutual Fund and commenced its operations in 2007, the objective of this fund is to track domestic gold prices.
- UTI Gold ETF: This scheme is administered by UTI Mutual Fund and the objective of this is to provide exchange-traded scheme for gold prices.
- Kotak Gold ETF: It is managed by Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund, and the objective is to provide returns commensurate with domestic gold prices, subject to tracking error.
- SBI Gold ETF: This scheme is administered by SBI Mutual Fund, and the objective is to provide exchange-traded scheme for gold prices.
How to Invest in Gold ETFs in India: Step-by-Step
The steps below explain the general process of how to invest in gold ETF in India.
- Step 1: Open a Demat and Trading Account — Open a demat and trading account with a reliable stockbroker and complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) form.
- Step 2: Do Research on ETF — Compare the expense ratio, AUM, tracking error, and trading volume of various Gold ETF schemes.
- Step 3: Search on the Exchange for the Scheme’s Name or Trading Symbol — Look for the scheme’s name or trading symbol to buy Gold ETFs on the stock exchange.
- Step 4: Evaluate Buying Price, Selling Price, and Applicable Charges — Evaluate the buying price, selling price, and applicable charges.
- Step 5: Buy the ETF — Select the number of units and order type. A limit order allows the investor to specify the maximum buying price.
- Step 6: Check the Holdings — Review the units purchased in the Demat account.
- Step 7: Review — Check the scheme’s expenses, tracking measures and tax implications periodically.
Conclusion
The Gold ETFs provide investors with exposure to the price of gold, without having to store physical gold. These funds have been listed on the stock exchanges and mostly require a Demat & Trading account to invest in them. While comparing the schemes, investors usually compare expense ratio, tracking error, AUM, liquidity and tax implications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gold ETFs in India
What is the minimum amount needed to invest in a Gold ETF in India?
The minimum investment depends on the unit price and applicable charges. Investors may generally purchase one unit at the prevailing market price.
Can I invest in Gold ETFs without a Demat account?
A Demat account is generally required to hold Gold ETF units purchased on a stock exchange. A trading account is also needed to place orders.
Is a Gold ETF better than physical gold?
Gold ETFs do not require personal storage, while physical gold provides a tangible asset. The differences include storage, transaction costs and how the gold is held.
Disclaimer
The above data is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. All figures and market data are as of 13 October 2026 and may change over time. Investors should conduct their own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.
