Gold has always been a premier investment choice for those looking to safeguard their wealth or diversify their investment portfolio. For years, Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) provided a unique opportunity for individuals to invest in gold. It combines the government’s security along with no making charges or locker charges and assured returns.
Latest Update
- The Indian Government and the Reserve Bank of India halted the issuance of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) in February 2025 due to high government borrowing costs.
- The last fresh tranche was issued in February, 2024.
- While the fresh issuance of Sovereign Gold bonds may be halted, the previously owned SGBs will not be affected.
Sovereign Gold Bonds, or SGBs, are financial instruments issued by the Government of India.
As per the current Reserve Bank of India (RBI) norms, the following entities are eligible to buy/invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB):
Note: NRIs, PIOs, OCIs, and entities like Firms, LLPs, and private limited companies are not eligible to buy sovereign gold bonds.
Required documented to purchase Sovereign Gold Bonds online:
Investors must adhere to the annual compliance limits set by the RBI per fiscal year (April to March):
| Investor Category | Minimum Annual Limit | Maximum Annual Limit |
| Individuals | 1 Gram | 4 kg |
| HUFs | 1 Gram | 4 kg |
| Trusts & Universities | 1 Gram | 20 kg |
There are multiple ways you can buy SGB, which are as follows:
Here are the steps to buy Sovereign Gold Bonds online:
Step 1: Log in to your bank’s internet banking/mobile banking account with your credentials.
Step 2: From the home page/screen, click on the ‘eServices’ option and select ‘Sovereign Gold Bonds’.
Step 3: Go through the terms and conditions and agree to it.
Step 4: Fill in the required details, such as quality (number of grams), nominee details, etc., and proceed.
Step 5: Make the payment through your desired mode of payment.
Here are the steps to buy Sovereign Gold Bonds by visiting a designated post office:
Step 1: Physically visit your nearest post office and ask for an application form to invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds.
Step 2: Fill in the application form carefully and submit it along with the required documents.
Step 3: Make the payment by submitting a cheque or demand draft (DD).
Step 4: Once it is verified and accepted, you will get an acknowledgement receipt for your application.
Please note that the Finance Minister has stated the government is planning to close the SGB scheme during the post-budget media session. Thus, there will no more issue of SGBs.
Sovereign Gold Bonds allow investors to participate in the gold market without paying the making charges for gold and the hassle of physical storage. By investing in these instruments, you can diversify your portfolio and capitalise on the rising gold market. There are multiple ways to invest in SGBs. However, applying online from your bank’s net banking or mobile banking is the most convenient and secure way.