How to Buy/Invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds Online

Indians have a deep appreciation for gold beyond its market value. So much so that today, there are numerous ways to invest in it, apart from the traditional methods. Among these modes are Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) 

 

Through SGBs, you can invest without bearing any making and wastage costs and own gold in a ‘certificate’ format. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Government created SGBs, and as such, they are government-issued debt securities denominated in multiples of grams of gold. 

 

To find out how to buy or invest in sovereign gold bonds, and more, read on.

If you plan to invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds, you need to know some essential points, such as:

 

1. Interest Payouts

Gold bonds enable you to earn an annual interest of 2.5% on the issue price. The interest distribution happens semi-annually. As such, unlike physical gold, you get periodic returns from your investment. 

2. Minimum and Maximum Limit

The minimum investment requirement is 1 gram in a financial year for individuals, companies, HUFs, and other entities. The maximum investment limit for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) is 4kgs. Whereas, for companies and other entities, the maximum limit is 20kgs in a financial year.

3. Investment Tenor

A Sovereign Gold Bond has an investment tenor of 8 years. However, after the fifth year from the date of issue on the coupon, you can redeem your investment. Also, you have the option to trade your bonds on the stock exchanges if you are holding them in a demat account.

4. Rules for Investment

You can make joint investments in SGBs, and only the primary holder is subject to the annual limit. Minors can also invest with the help of guardians. Also, family members have the option to invest individually within the yearly limit. 

 

When you apply, you get a unique investor ID, which you can use for future investments. Also, your PAN is an essential requirement while investing, and it serves as a unique identity proof. 

5. Price

Before issuing new bonds, the RBI bases the prices on the 3-day average closing price of 999 purity gold. You can only use Indian currency to invest, and you can choose from multiple investment options, such as cheques, DD, electronic transfers, and cash. 

 

However, when it comes to using cash, there is a cap of ₹20,000. Moreover, online applicants get an issue price of ₹50 per gram lower than the nominal value.

6.  Tax Exemption

Maturity gains for SGB are exempt from capital gain taxation. However, the interest earned is subject to taxes. You will have to add the interest earned to your taxable income and pay taxes as per your income tax bracket.

The Government of India designed Sovereign Gold Bonds to encourage gold investment. Since SGBs also offer tax benefits upon maturity, individuals who invest in them generally do so for the long term. This is also evident from the low volume of SGBs traded in the stock market.

 

SGBs are a great way to diversify your portfolio and include gold as an investment. However, make sure that you do your research about the pros and cons before you buy SGBs. With Bajaj Markets, you can enjoy a hassle-free and quick investment process.