With gold prices at lifetime highs and the festive season in full swing, Indians are once again turning to the yellow metal — whether as a symbol of prosperity, a safe-haven investment, or a timeless gift. But before you rush to buy or sell, it’s crucial to remember that gold gains are not tax-free. From jewellery to ETFs and Sovereign Gold Bonds, each investment route has distinct tax implications that can significantly affect your actual returns. Advertisement

Physical gold

Profits from selling physical gold are treated as capital gains. If sold within two years, they qualify as short-term capital gains (STCG) and are taxed according to your income slab. For holdings beyond two years, the gains become long-term (LTCG) and are taxed at 12.5% plus surcharge and cess under the new tax ru

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