Gold Prices Decline, Gold ETF Inflows Surge 71.4%: Top 10 Gold ETFs in India With Up to 34.86% Returns in 3 Years
Gold remains an important investment option for people looking to diversify their portfolios. While jewellery and coins provide physical ownership, Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) allow investors to gain exposure to gold prices without storing the metal themselves. Rising inflows into these funds in 2026 highlight continued investor interest, even as gold prices fluctuate.
Why Is Gold in Focus?
Gold prices are influenced by global economic uncertainty, central-bank purchases and expectations around US interest rates. Geopolitical tensions can increase demand for gold as a safe-haven asset, while a stronger US dollar and rising bond yields can put pressure on prices. In India, rupee movements and changes in import duties can also affect domestic gold prices.
Top 10 Gold ETFs in India in 2026
Gold ETF
1-Year Returns (%)
3-Year Returns (%)
5-Year Returns (%)
UTI Gold ETF
15.31
34.86
23.86
LIC MF Gold ETF
15.18
34.76
24.08
Invesco India Gold ETF
13.9
34.51
23.77
Quantum Gold ETF
14.33
34.5
23.67
ICICI Prudential Gold ETF
14.37
34.39
23.76
Axis Gold ETF
14.11
34.39
23.69
Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold ETF
14.45
34.37
23.72
HDFC Gold ETF
14.27
34.31
23.65
Kotak Gold ETF
14.35
34.27
23.68
SBI Gold ETF
14.18
34.24
23.56
Source: Value Research Online. Returns are ranked by three-year performance. Figures should be checked against the latest available data before publication.
Also read: 364 days Treasury Bill vs SBI 1-Year FD: ₹10 Lakh Investment Could Grow to ₹10.64 Lakh at Maturity - Check Which Offers Higher Returns
Gold ETF Inflows Rise Despite Falling Gold Prices
Indian Gold ETFs attracted ₹4,450.61 crore in net inflows in September 2026, up 71.4% from ₹2,596.70 crore in August, according to data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI). September inflows rose even as gold prices retreated from their highs. Between January and September 2026, Gold ETFs reportedly attracted around ₹45,925 crore, exceeding the ₹42,961 crore received during the whole of 2025. This reflects strong investor demand, although inflows alone do not predict future gold prices or guarantee positive returns.
Are Gold ETFs Suitable for Every Investor?
Gold ETFs can help diversify a portfolio, but they do not offer assured returns. Their value depends on gold-price movements, while expenses and tracking differences can cause returns to vary from the underlying gold price. Investors who buy ETF units on a stock exchange may also face brokerage charges and differences between the traded price and NAV. Before investing, consider your financial goals, risk tolerance and existing exposure to gold. Compare costs, liquidity and tracking performance instead of choosing a fund solely on the basis of past returns.