About Sovereign Gold Bond
Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) is a financial product issued by the Government of India, designed to offer investors a secure and affordable way to invest in gold. The bond is denominated in grams of gold. Sovereign Gold Bond offer a fixed interest rate of 2.50% per annum, payable semi-annually, and are tradable on stock exchanges. They have a tenure of 8 years, with an option to exit after the fifth year. SGBs also provide tax benefits to investors.
Guaranteed Security and TransparencySovereign Gold Bonds are issued by the Reserve Bank of India on behalf of the Government of India, assuring investors of safety and transparency. The issue price is tied to the simple average of closing prices of gold (999 purity), as published by the IBJA, ensuring fair market-linked valuations and true reflection of gold rates.
Flexible Investment and Loan CollateralInvestors can subscribe to Sovereign Gold Bonds through banks, SHCIL, post offices, and stock exchanges. SGBs are eligible as collateral for loans, enabling liquidity without the need to sell the investment. Both demat and physical certificate holdings are supported, accommodating varying investor preferences.
Tax Advantage and Hassle-Free RedemptionThe capital gains from SGBs are exempt on redemption, and the bonds offer semi-annual interest payments at a fixed rate of 2.5% per annum. Investors can exit after five years on interest payment dates, or hold till maturity (8 years), redeeming at the prevailing market price of gold, providing reliable returns and ease of access.
FAQ's of Sovereign Gold Bond:
Q: How can I purchase Sovereign Gold Bonds and what documents are required?
A: Sovereign Gold Bonds can be bought through banks, Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL), designated post offices, and recognized stock exchanges. You'll typically need an identity proof, address proof, and PAN card, along with a completed application form. Mode of holding can be chosen as demat or certificate.
Q: What is the lock-in period for premature exit from Sovereign Gold Bonds?
A: There is a lock-in period of 5 years from the date of issue. Early withdrawal is permitted only on interest payment dates after five years, while standard maturity is eight years from issuance.
Q: Who is eligible to invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds?
A: Resident individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), trusts, universities, and charitable institutions are all eligible to invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds, subject to investment limits per fiscal year.
Q: Can Sovereign Gold Bonds be used as collateral for loans?
A: Yes, Sovereign Gold Bonds are considered eligible collateral for loans. Banks and financial institutions may accept SGBs as security, based on the prevailing value and their internal policies.
Q: What benefits do Sovereign Gold Bonds offer compared to physical gold investment?
A: SGBs offer a sovereign guarantee, protection against risks of theft and storage costs, annual interest of 2.5% paid semi-annually, exemption from capital gains tax at redemption, and easy tradability and transferability on recognized exchanges.
Q: How is the redemption price determined when I sell or redeem my Sovereign Gold Bonds?
A: Upon redemption or premature exit, the redemption price is based on the prevailing market price of gold of 999 purity as published by IBJA, ensuring alignment with current gold rates.