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Dhanteras, an auspicious occasion during Diwali, has long been associated with buying gold and silver as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. While the tradition of purchasing physical gold and silver continues, an increasing number of investors are opting for financial alternatives such as Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) or Silver Exchange- Traded Funds (ETFs). These instruments provide convenient exposure to the precious metals without the challenges of storing or managing physical gold and silver.ETMutualFunds looked at the performance of gold ETFs and silver ETFs since last Dhanteras dated October 29,2024 and found that gold ETFs have offered upto 64% return with an average return of 63.11% whereas silver ETFs have offered upto 72% return with an average return of 69.05%.Also Read | Gold vs Silver: Which one deserves a place in your portfolio this Diwali?There were 17 gold ETFs in the said time period, of which HDFC Gold ETF gave the highest return of around 63.89% and Groww Gold ETF gave the lowest return of around 62.29% since the last Dhanteras celebrated on October 29, 2024.On the other hand, there were 21 silver ETFs of which ICICI Pru Silver ETF gave the highest return of 72.13% and Kotak Silver ETF FoF gave the lowest return of around 63.84% in the same time period.According to a report by ETMarkets, Gold has seen a significant run-up over the past year. As per market data, the price of gold increased from Rs 78,840 per 10 grams on Dhanteras 2024 to Rs 1,28,200 by Dhanteras 2025, yielding an annual return of 63% in INR terms and 53% in USD. Silver has also witnessed a stellar surge since the last Dhanteras.With the current rally in precious metals, should one go for gold or silver ETFs now in their portfolios? According to experts, upside potential is still there in the precious metals and a small correction in the short term cannot be ruled out.“We believe that both Gold and Silver has more upside but correction in both the commodities in the short term cannot be ruled out. Investor should invest in a staggered manner and take advantage of any drawdowns. Investor should also manage their expectations from these 2 commodities going forward,” Siddharth Srivastava, Head - ETF Product & Fund Manager at Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India) shared with ETMutualFunds.While recommending to go for a staggered investment approach in gold from current levels to get benefits from any price correction, Tapan Patel, Fund Manager - Commodities at Tata Asset Management told ETMutualFunds that, “Gold and silver prices have witnessed rallies of approx 60% and 80% respectively in CYTD 2025.(Bloomberg) The market fundamentals are still supportive for gold and silver going forward despite some of the factors that have been priced in.”Also Read | Diwali 2025: Mutual fund categories that can brighten your portfolio“For silver investment, investors may wait for market stability from the current high premium market. Investors may look to enter with a staggered manner once the spot market stabilizes,” Patel adds.Experts always recommend having 10-15% in precious metals in their respective portfolios. Gold and silver funds are used for portfolio diversification. If you have a large portfolio, you can earmark a small percentage of the total portfolio (advisors say around 10%) to invest in gold and/or silver. If you are starting out or you have a very small portfolio, you can give it a miss. Investors should remember that these funds won't offer you greater returns year after year. They are supposed to offer you diversification and add stability to your portfolio.Patel of Tata Mutual Fund recommends that the current global market fundamentals depict high uncertainties which may fuel risk premium in precious metals and investors may look for optimum asset allocation as per their risk profile with at least 10% allocation to gold and 5% to silver investment.On the other hand, Srivastava from Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India) recommends that any allocation in precious metals should be from a long term point of view. “While silver may have more upside, gold is also expected to perform well with possibly lower drawdowns. If you have a lower risk appetite, have higher allocation towards Gold,” Srivastava recommends.(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)If you have any mutual fund queries, message on ET Mutual Funds on Facebook/Twitter. We will get it answered by our panel of experts. Do share your questions on ETMFqueries@timesinternet.in alongwith your age, risk profile, and twitter handle.

As the five-day Diwali festival begins with Dhanteras, the day holds immense significance for millions of Indians who view it as the most auspicious time to purchase gold and silver.Celebrated on the Trayodashi Tithi (13th day) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik, Dhanteras is marked by prayers to Lord Kuber and Goddess Laxmi, symbols of wealth and prosperity.According to Hindu belief, acquiring precious metals on this day is not just a tradition, but a way of inviting good fortune and abundance into one’s life.Dhanteras is more than just a shopping occasion. It signals the onset of Diwali and sets the tone for the festive spirit. Markets across the country witness a surge in footfall, as families come together to invest in gold, silver, and other valuables.From traditional coins and jewelry to digital gold and ETFs, the modern Indian investor has an array of options to align both spiritual sentiment and financial prudence. With the price of gold having steadily risen over the past year, many are eager to know not only the best time to buy but also the safest and most effective ways to invest.Here’s a detailed look at the most auspicious muhurat for buying gold this Dhanteras, followed by a guide to various gold investment avenues, and finally, the outlook for gold beyond the festival.Auspicious Time to Buy Gold on Dhanteras 2025Dhanteras in 2025 falls on October 18. According to the Hindu calendar, Trayodashi Tithi begins at 12:18 PM and ends at 01:51 PM the same day. Within this window lies the most spiritually significant time to make purchases, particularly during:Dhanteras Puja Muhurat: October 18, from 07:15 PM to 08:19 PMPradosh Kaal: 05:48 PM to 08:19 PMVrishabha Kaal: 07:15 PM to 09:11 PMApart from these, Choghadiya timings, considered highly favorable, also suggest multiple good windows for purchase:Afternoon Muhurat (Chara, Labha, Amrita): 12:18 PM to 04:23 PMEvening Muhurat (Labha): 05:48 PM to 07:23 PMNight Muhurat (Shubha, Amrita, Chara): October 19, 08:57 PM to 01:41 AMEarly Morning Muhurat (Labha): October 19, 04:50 AM to 06:24 AMPurchases on October 19 are also considered auspicious until 01:51 PM, with favorable Choghadiya slots from 07:50 AM to 12:06 PM and 01:31 PM to 01:51 PM.How Can Investors Buy Gold This Dhanteras?While traditional purchases of gold jewelry, coins, and silverware dominate the festive landscape, retail investors today have a wide variety of financial instruments to participate in the gold rally without the burden of storage or high capital outlay.Here are the main avenues for gold investment:Gold ETFs: Gold Exchange-Traded Funds offer high liquidity, ease of trading, and transparency. Funds like SPDR GLD provide exposure to gold prices without needing to own physical gold.Digital Gold: This allows micro-investments in gold, often starting with as little as one rupee. Investors can accumulate 24K gold stored in insured vaults through digital platforms.Gold Mutual Funds: These funds invest in gold ETFs and are ideal for those without a demat account. They offer professional management and are accessible via SIPs or lump sums.Physical Gold: Coins and bars remain popular during Dhanteras for their cultural and emotional value. Buyers usually opt for certified dealers either online or offline.Futures and Options: More suited for experienced investors, gold futures and options traded on platforms like MCX provide leveraged exposure to price movements.Gold Mining stocks: Investors seeking potentially higher returns may consider shares in gold mining companies. However, these carry higher risks due to volatility.Gold Outlook Beyond Dhanteras 2025Gold has seen a significant run-up over the past year. As per market data, the price of gold increased from Rs 78,840 per 10 grams on Dhanteras 2024 to Rs 1,28,200 by Dhanteras 2025, yielding an annual return of 63% in INR terms and 53% in USD.Analyst reports suggest:The next potential resistance levels are between Rs 1,30,000 and Rs 1,35,000, with support around Rs 1,20,000.On COMEX, gold is projected to trade between $4,250 and $4,500 per ounce in the near term.Longer-term forecasts hint at an uncharted rise towards $5,000 per ounce or Rs 1,50,000 per 10 grams by 2026.According to analysts from Motilal Oswal and Ventura Securities, while short-term corrections cannot be ruled out, sustained prices above all-time highs could indicate continued bullish momentum in gold.As Dhanteras 2025 arrives with strong cultural sentiment and robust financial indicators, investors, whether traditional buyers or market participants, have a wide window and numerous instruments to consider.Also read: Silver's great disconnect: MCX prices soar but ETFs crash 8%. What's really happening?(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

As gold soars to an unprecedented Rs 1.3 lakh per 10 grams in almost all parts of the country, Indian jewellers are facing one of their most challenging festive seasons in years. Yet, the buzz inside glittering showrooms tells a different story.Gold prices in India have surged due to global and domestic factors. US President Donald Trump’s new tariff rates have escalated trade tensions, driving investors toward gold as a safe haven. As India imports 70–80% of its gold, global price hikes and import costs directly raise domestic rates. High import duties and logistics expenses add further pressure.Despite the steep price tag, the spirit of Dhanteras, a day which has long been synonymous with prosperity and new beginnings, is very much alive. Jewellers across the country say footfalls are rising, early bookings are strong, and consumers are adapting rather than abstaining. The challenge this year isn’t about selling gold, but it is more about reimagining how people buy it.From lightweight designs and new karat innovations to digital-first shopping and sentimental storytelling, India’s top jewellery brands are deploying fresh strategies to keep the festive sparkle alive, proving that even when prices hit record highs, the love for gold doesn’t fade, it evolves.Also Read: Gold connection: India’s timeless love for gold shines in modern DiwaliWhen gold gets pricier, brands get smarterIn a year when gold has climbed to historic levels, jewellers know they must make the precious metal feel lighter, both emotionally and financially. The emphasis this festive season is shifting from weight to meaning.“At these price levels, people aren’t postponing purchases — they’re planning smarter,” said Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director, CaratLane. “Our focus this season is on celebrating emotion, not just consumption. While gold prices remain elevated, consumer sentiment is positive, and we’re ensuring accessibility through thoughtful design and festive value.”CaratLane’s offer of a free 0.5g gold coin for every Rs 35,000 spent, Bhaumik said, “has struck the right chord — turning every purchase into both adornment and shagun.” The company is also banking on convenience to drive sales, with its 350+ stores, faster deliveries, and Try-at-Home services ensuring a seamless omni-channel experience.The high bullion price has accelerated the shift toward lightweight and alternative purity jewellery. “The recent BIS certification for 9KT gold has strengthened consumer confidence,” Bhaumik said. CaratLane’s 9KT line now spans over 200 BIS-certified designs starting at Rs 7,500, catering to first-time buyers and gifting customers.Also Read: Gold prices rally to new high past Rs 1.3 lakh ahead of Dhanteras, silver follows suit. Will the festive season take bullion higher?At Kalyan Jewellers, traditional and modern values coexist in equal measure. “Gold continues to be valued both as a long-term investment and as an integral part of our traditions,” said Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers. “We are witnessing robust footfalls across major markets, supported by healthy pre-bookings, fresh festive collections, and impactful campaigns.”Their design strategy is built on “heavier look, lower grammage” pieces — visually grand but crafted to use less metal. “We are also seeing a growing affinity among younger, style-conscious buyers for lightweight, versatile 18K designs,” Kalyanaraman adds. “These pieces offer a modern aesthetic while still carrying the beloved essence of gold.”He notes that silver is quietly finding a bigger place this season too. “Silver pooja thalis, figurines, and coins are witnessing significant demand,” he said, reflecting the appetite for auspicious yet affordable purchases.“The 2025 festive season has begun on a positive note for us with a 5% year-on-year increase in volumes and a 27% rise in value,” said M.P. Ahammed, Chairman, Malabar Gold & Diamonds. “While the intent to buy gold remains steady, consumers are adjusting their preferences. There has been a visible rise in demand for lightweight and lifestyle-oriented jewellery, especially among youngsters.”To sustain the momentum, Malabar has rolled out a bouquet of offers including up to 30% off on making charges for gold, uncut, and gemstone jewellery, and up to 30% off on diamond value. Customers who pre-book their Dhanteras purchases by paying 10% upfront receive a free silver coin, along with protection from gold price fluctuations. “They can buy at either the booked rate or the prevailing market rate, whichever is lower,” Ahammed said.Accessibility and affordability are also central to P.N. Gadgil & Sons’ festive playbook. “Gold jewellery will always be in style,” said Aditya Modak, CFO and COO of the company. “Our main goal is to make gold ownership more accessible by offering lightweight and affordable 9-carat, 14-carat, and 18-carat options. Instead of asking customers to compromise, we’re letting them buy gold in ways that fit their budgets and lifestyles.”The new buyer: Young, expressive, and price-savvyIf gold has long symbolised security for Indian families, for younger buyers it now doubles as self-expression. Jewellers say the emotional connection remains strong, but it is being expressed differently.“Younger consumers see jewellery as self-expression, not just tradition,” said CaratLane’s Bhaumik. “They value aesthetics, authenticity, and purpose. Our campaigns reflect this shift — highlighting individuality, love, and gifting rather than pure investment,” he added.Kalyan Jewellers, too, has tuned its messaging to the new generation. Its Huescape collection reinterprets traditional motifs through contemporary silhouettes and pastel gemstones, appealing to the design sensibilities of younger buyers. “We’re tailoring campaigns with regionally relevant messaging,” Kalyanaraman adds. “The connection to jewellery is still emotional, but the expression is evolving.”That evolution is being felt across the industry.Thoughtful purchasesP.N. Gadgil’s sub-brands are each designed with specific audiences in mind- Gargi for contemporary designs, Utsav for festive and bridal wear, and Reva for premium, fashion-forward customers. “People are actively buying, but they’re strategic about weight,” Modak said. “In terms of value, sales are more or less the same or higher than last year, but in terms of quantity, they’re slightly lower.”Meanwhile, Parag Shah, CEO, KISNA Diamond & Gold Jewellery stated that over the past 15 days, the brand has observed a steady rise in buying interest. “Earlier in the season, price fluctuations led to some caution, but now shoppers are returning with greater clarity and confidence,” he added.KISNA planned early for this shift, introducing its 9KT diamond jewellery range- a segment that combines affordability with design. “This collection allows us to offer fine jewellery at accessible price points, starting below Rs 15,000,” Shah said. “It caters to young professionals, first-time buyers, and those looking for elegant gifting options.”The company’s focus on lightweight and versatile designs has helped it tap into evolving consumer preferences. “We’re seeing strong traction in the Rs 15,000 to Rs 50,000 range,” Shah said. “Consumers are not postponing purchases; they’re making thoughtful choices, opting for lighter pieces and alternative karat options that deliver more value.”To add festive excitement, KISNA has launched a nationwide lucky draw, giving customers a chance to win cars and bikes during Dhanteras. “We’re optimistic about strong sales,” Shah said. “The enthusiasm across our showrooms and digital platforms reaffirms that jewellery continues to be a symbol of prosperity and celebration.”At PP Jewellers by Pawan Gupta, the belief is that emotion will continue to outweigh economics. “Dhanteras has always been an auspicious occasion for buying gold,” said Piyush Gupta, Director of the company. “Despite higher prices this year, we believe the sentiment of tradition will drive demand. Gold is not just a purchase — it’s an emotion tied to wealth security and family celebrations.”The brand expects volume sales to be about 20% lower compared to last year, but in value terms, growth of 15–20%. “While prices are firm, buyers view gold as a long-term investment, especially around Diwali and the wedding season,” Gupta said.To sweeten the deal, PP Jewellers has introduced 5.9% making charges across all categories, along with free gifts on every purchase. “Customers are prioritising purity, transparent pricing, and value,” Gupta adds. “Coins, light daily-wear, and bridal jewellery continue to see strong demand.”If there’s one takeaway from this year’s festive season, it’s that India’s relationship with gold is maybe evolving, but not weakening.Consumers may be buying lighter, but they’re buying smarter. They’re choosing jewellery that is wearable, versatile, and reflective of their lifestyle rather than a symbol locked away in a safe. Jewellers, in turn, are adapting, mixing karats, innovating design, and blending digital convenience with personal touch.The sentiment, across brands, is cautiously upbeat. The gold may be dearer, but the emotion around it is undiminished. As Kalyanaraman of Kalyan Jewellers puts it, “Gold may be expensive, but celebrations are timeless. That sentiment hasn’t changed — and it never will.”

Mumbai : India’s stock indices logged the highest weekly gain in four months, up 1.7%, driven by momentum in banking stocks and optimism ahead of Diwali that led to a technical breakout in the benchmark. Analysts said that while short-term gains of around 500 points are possible, these may not be sustained after Diwali.The NSE Nifty finished Friday at 25,709.85, up 0.5% or 124.55 points from the day before. The BSE Sensex ended at 83,952.19, 0.6% or 484.53 points higher. Both indices gained 1.7% in the past week.The muhurat trading session that marks Diwali will be held on October 21. The Bank Nifty hit a record on Friday and closed 0.5% higher.In the past week, the index has gained close to 2%. The Nifty FMCG index advanced 1.4% while the healthcare index rose 0.8%. Consumer durables, pharma and auto indices moved 0.7% higher.“The gains in the banking stocks drove the market higher this week post their business update, which reflected higher loan growth that cheered investors,” said Siddarth Bhamre, head of research, Asit C Mehta Intermediates. 124653031Pickup in Loan Growth“The pickup in loans could also be due on account of festive season and may not sustain post this period,” Bhamre said.“Since banks are neither expensive nor cheap at this point, both private and state-run banks can see further upside in the short term, but the cost of borrowing is also likely to increase and eat into net interest margins (NIMs), so investors should wait till next quarter to gauge whether the uptick in loan growth persists,” he said.Asian Paints emerged as the top gainer in the Nifty pack and jumped 4.1% on Friday. Mahindra & Mahindra and Bharti Airtel rose over 2% each. “Most investors place bets ahead of Diwali and cherry-pick stocks for long-term investment as the muhurat trading window is just for an hour,” said Dharmesh Kant, head of research, Cholamandalam Securities. “The gains are likely to cool off post the Diwali week.”Due to two quarters of earnings disappointment, expectations have been low, so even unexceptionally positive news has led to a jump.The Nifty Mid-cap 150 and Small-cap 250 indices declined 0.5% and 0.2%, respectively on Friday. Out of the 4,326 shares traded on the BSE, 1,641 advanced, while 2,527 declined.In the past week, the mid-cap index rose 0.2% while the small-cap index shed 0.2%.“The Nifty was trading in a triangle formation since May and witnessed a breakout on Thursday which indicates that the benchmark can be at 26,300 levels in the next month,” said Vipin Kumar of Globe Capital Market. “However, there are some concerns on the gains sustaining.”FPI SELLOFFThe lack of participation by the broader market in the rally and the foreign institutional investor (FII) long-short ratio persisting at low levels could cap gains, he said. Foreign portfolio investors bought shares worth a net ₹309 crore on Friday. Their domestic counterparts did so to the tune of ₹1,526.6 crore. In October, global investors purchased shares worth ₹817 crore.