GreenFunds
Money word, in simple language

Gold ETF

Also called Gold exchange-traded fund

A SEBI-regulated fund that holds physical gold and trades on the stock exchange like a share.

Gold Figures verified 2026-10-31

Example. Buying 10 units of a gold ETF through your broker gives you a share in the fund's gold, held in your demat account.

A gold ETF is a fund that holds physical gold and is listed on the stock exchange, so you buy and sell it like a share through a demat account. It’s regulated by SEBI, has no making charges or storage worries, and charges a small yearly fee. Compare it with a gold fund in gold ETF vs gold fund.

Questions people ask

What is a gold ETF?

An exchange-traded fund that holds physical gold and tracks its price. Its units are listed on the stock exchange, so you buy and sell them through a broker during market hours, and they sit in your demat account.

Do I need a demat account for a gold ETF?

Yes, because it trades on the stock exchange like a share. If you don't have one, a gold mutual fund invests in a gold ETF for you without a demat account.

How is a gold ETF taxed?

Under the rules since the 2024 Budget changes, gains on units held more than 12 months are long-term and taxed at 12.5% without indexation; shorter-term gains are taxed at your slab rate. Tax rules change, so check incometax.gov.in.

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