New Delhi, October 27, 2026: Digital gold purchases in India surged 83% year-on-year to ₹2,590 crore in September 2026, highlighting the growing popularity of app-based gold investments among consumers. The increase reflects sustained demand for gold despite elevated prices, with investors increasingly opting for convenient ways to accumulate the precious metal in small amounts.
According to the latest India Gold Market Update released by the World Gold Council (WGC), digital gold purchases increased by 4% compared with August. The estimated volume of purchases reached 1.7 tonnes during September, approximately 18% above the long-term monthly average since January 2025.
Digital Gold Demand Rises 76% in 2026
The growth in digital gold purchases has remained strong throughout the year. Between January and September 2026, cumulative purchases reached 16.3 tonnes, compared with 9.2 tonnes during the corresponding period in 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of approximately 76%.
The figures indicate that digital platforms are becoming an increasingly important channel for gold purchases in India. Unlike traditional gold buying, which often involves purchasing jewellery, coins or bars, digital gold allows consumers to buy small quantities online without needing to store the metal themselves.
The low entry barrier and convenience of app-based transactions have helped attract consumers who prefer gradual investments rather than making large purchases at once.
Convenience Drives Digital Gold Adoption
Digital gold platforms allow users to purchase gold in small denominations through mobile applications and online services. Depending on the provider, the purchased gold is backed by physical gold stored in secure vaults and may be sold online or redeemed for physical coins and bars, subject to the platform’s terms.
The format has gained attention as gold prices remain elevated, making traditional purchases more expensive for many households.
The World Gold Council has also highlighted the potential of digital gold to expand participation in the gold market. According to industry figures cited in recent reporting, 52% of digital gold holders had never owned gold before, suggesting that the investment channel may be attracting first-time buyers.
Festive Season Could Support Further Growth
The increase in digital gold purchases comes as India enters the festive and wedding season, a traditionally important period for gold demand.
Consumers typically purchase gold during festivals and weddings for investment, gifting and cultural reasons. Digital platforms offer an additional option for buyers who want exposure to gold without purchasing jewellery or physical bullion immediately.
Recent market data also point to continued interest in gold through other investment channels. According to the WGC, Indian gold exchange-traded funds recorded net inflows of ₹4,450 crore in September, their highest monthly level in seven months.
However, physical gold demand continues to play a major role in India’s gold market, particularly for jewellery purchases associated with weddings and festivals.
Regulatory Concerns Remain
Despite the rapid growth in digital gold purchases, regulatory and consumer-protection concerns remain important.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has cautioned investors that digital gold products offered by online platforms do not fall under its established regulatory framework for securities and commodity derivatives. Consequently, investors do not receive the same regulatory protections that apply to products such as gold exchange-traded funds.
Consumers are therefore advised to examine the credibility of service providers, storage and custody arrangements, transaction charges, buy-sell price differences and redemption conditions before purchasing digital gold.
Greater transparency and stronger safeguards could play an important role in maintaining consumer confidence as the sector expands.
Outlook: Digital Gold Gains Ground in India
The 83% increase in September purchases underscores the growing appeal of digital gold as an accessible way to invest in the precious metal. Strong year-to-date growth suggests that demand extends beyond a single month and reflects a broader shift towards digital purchasing channels.
The festive season could provide additional support to demand, although future growth will depend on gold price movements, consumer confidence, platform transparency and the evolution of regulatory safeguards.
As digital gold becomes more accessible to Indian consumers, its long-term growth will depend not only on convenience but also on investor trust, transparent pricing and reliable custody arrangements.