Gold exchange-traded funds have delivered remarkable returns since the last Akshaya Tritiya festival, with MCX gold prices rallying approximately 63% during this period. According to reports from Mint, gold ETFs have mirrored this strong performance, generating returns in the range of 59-60% since April 30, 2025. Some funds have even surpassed the 60% mark, demonstrating the sustained momentum in gold investments. The latest data shows gold prices have climbed from around ₹29,000 per 10 grams in 2016 to over ₹1.54 lakh in April 2026, translating into cumulative gains of nearly 435% over the past decade. Recent developments show gold prices have reached near three-week highs following US-Iran ceasefire talks, with experts now expecting gold could target $5,900 by year-end.
Among the leading performers, Quantum Gold ETF and Tata Gold ETF gained around 60% each, as reported by Mint. Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold ETF delivered 58.73% returns, followed by ICICI Prudential Gold ETF with 58.69% returns and Zerodha Gold ETF with 58.60% rally. Other notable performers included Kotak Gold ETF rising 58.51%, while DSP Gold ETF and HDFC Gold ETF advanced 58.49% and 58.48% respectively. The current market setup shows gold trading near record highs, with prices likely to remain in a broad range of ₹1.55 lakh to ₹1.75 lakh per 10 grams in the near term.
According to Akshat Garg, Head of Research and Product at Choice Wealth, as reported by Mint, the surge has been driven by a combination of global safe-haven demand, geopolitical uncertainty, and strong domestic interest in gold. Deveya Gaglani, Senior Research Analyst at Axis Securities, highlighted that gold ETF prices have risen from around ₹78 to ₹125 since the previous Akshaya Tritiya, translating into returns of nearly 60%. She expects gold prices to deliver returns of 10-15% in the second half of 2026. Recent market developments show gold prices have surged following US-Iran ceasefire talks and weakening US dollar, with experts noting that sustained gains will depend on inflation trends, Fed policy signals and whether geopolitical tensions continue to cool. Central banks across the world continue to accumulate gold reserves, creating a strong demand base and providing a price floor.
Gaglani advises investors to continue holding gold ETFs in their portfolios, while suggesting that new investors can consider building exposure gradually through a staggered approach. According to Mint, Akshat Garg emphasised that the decision to hold or book profits should be guided by an investor's asset allocation strategy. For investors whose gold exposure remains within or below their target allocation, maintaining or gradually increasing exposure could still be appropriate. The elevated price levels are expected to influence consumer behavior this Akshaya Tritiya, with buying likely to be more measured compared to previous years. Instead of aggressive fresh purchases, consumers may prefer exchange-led transactions—upgrading old jewellery or making smaller, incremental investments. Recent market data shows gold ETF inflows fell 57% to ₹2,265 crore in March, while silver ETFs posted outflows for the second consecutive month, indicating some investor rotation from precious metals.
Akshaya Tritiya 2026 falls on April 19, 2026, with the auspicious gold-buying muhurat beginning at 10:49 am. According to The Economic Times, gold demand remains strong ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, with retail investors viewing bullion as a key wealth creation tool. Despite high prices, the festival drives demand, supported by gold's safe-haven appeal amidst global uncertainties. Younger buyers are increasingly opting for lightweight jewellery and digital gold, while investment products like coins and bars are also gaining traction. The festival continues to serve as a proven entry point for gold investors, with experts recommending a 'buy on dips' strategy amid evolving geopolitical developments. While valuations look stretched, structural factors like central bank buying and rising debt support a positive long-term view, suggesting gold as a hedge for investors.
