Akshaya Tritiya trend: Digital gold gains alongside jewellery buying; analysts see shift in investor choices

Flexible and transparent gold investment options such as digital gold and ETFs are expected to gain traction alongside traditional jewellery buying this Akshaya Tritiya, reflecting changing investor preferences, analysts said.Akshaya Tritiya, considered an auspicious day for gold purchases, will be celebrated on Sunday. Analysts said participation is evolving, with more investors exploring financial products linked to the yellow metal even as physical buying remains significant, according to PTI.“We are seeing a gradual change in how investors participate in gold, while physical buying remains important during occasions like Akshaya Tritiya, there is a clear rise in interest towards more flexible and transparent investment options,” Manav Modi, Analyst Commodities, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, said.The brokerage said bullion markets in 2026 have remained volatile due to geopolitical tensions, slowing global growth and shifting monetary policy expectations.Despite intermittent corrections, gold and silver have gained around 10 per cent and 5 per cent year-to-date, respectively, signalling continued safe-haven demand.The report said this trend could strengthen further as investors seek convenience and liquidity.On the domestic front, elevated prices have kept jewellery demand subdued and price-sensitive, leading to discounted domestic prices.It added that investors now have several avenues to gain exposure to gold, including physical bullion, exchange-traded funds, digital gold and derivatives, highlighting a gradual move towards more liquid options.“Gold is currently navigating a complex global environment,” said Navneet Damani, Head of Research, Commodities, Motilal Oswal Financial Services.“While there are phases of pressure due to interest rate expectations and currency strength, the broader outlook remains supported by uncertainty, inflation concerns, and long-term investment demand,” he added.The report said geopolitical risks, slowing global growth and the possibility of monetary policy easing later in the year may support prices, while persistent inflation, a stronger US dollar and weak physical demand could remain near-term headwinds.As Akshaya Tritiya approaches, the brokerage said gold continues to remain a trusted asset for Indian households, combining tradition with financial security in an uncertain environment.