Investors Weigh Gold and Silver Options for Akshaya Tritiya Returns

Gold and Silver Prices Surge Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya

Gold and silver purchases during Akshaya Tritiya carry deep cultural significance in India, where bullion serves not only as a store of wealth but also as a key vehicle for intergenerational transfer. This tradition underpins resilient physical demand, even during periods of elevated prices.

Since Akshaya Tritiya last year, both gold and silver prices have witnessed a sharp rally, generating strong returns for investors. Historical data over the past nine years indicates that purchases made on the festival day have consistently delivered gains, broadly aligning with gold’s long-term upward trajectory.

Indian households are estimated to hold 11-16% of all the gold ever mined above ground — exceeding the combined national reserves of the US, Germany, Italy, and Russia, the world’s four largest official gold holders, according to InCred Money.

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Gold rates have surged approximately 56% since 30 April 2025 — when Akshaya Tritiya was celebrated last year. On that day, 24-carat gold was priced at ₹97,910 per 10 grams; as of 16 April 2026, prices have climbed to around ₹1,54,700 per 10 grams, tracking global gains amid heightened macroeconomic uncertainty.

This year, the festival will fall on Sunday, 19 April 2026. India's gold demand is set to pick up ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, an auspicious day traditionally associated with buying precious metals, with dealers expecting robust retail interest despite elevated prices.

Silver, meanwhile, has significantly outperformed gold, delivering returns of over 155% since last year’s festival. MCX silver prices have risen from approximately ₹1,00,000 per kg to ₹2,55,000 per kg, underscoring its dual appeal as both a precious and industrial metal.

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While both gold and silver have experienced heightened volatility, the underlying outlook remains constructive. Gold has delivered a strong performance over the past five years, consistently generating positive returns around Akshaya Tritiya. The momentum has been particularly notable over the past two years, with gains of approximately 40% and 47% in dollar terms.

Gold vs. Silver: What should investors consider?

Gold prices could retest the $5,300 – $5,500 range over the next year, implying an upside of around 10–15% from current levels. In the domestic market, prices are expected to reach ₹1,70,000 – ₹1,85,000 over the same period.

Silver, given its combined industrial and investment demand, is likely to remain on an upward trajectory, albeit with high volatility. While near-term price swings are expected, the medium-term outlook remains positive.