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SEBI Raises Gold & Silver Allocation Limit in Equity Funds

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 14:38 GMT by ThePrint
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New Delhi, February 26th, 2026 - The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) today announced a landmark decision, dramatically increasing the permissible allocation of equity funds to gold and silver. The regulatory body has raised the limit to 35% of a fund's assets, a significant departure from previous restrictions that capped precious metal investments at a minimal percentage. This move signals a growing acceptance of alternative assets within the Indian investment landscape and a proactive response to escalating global economic uncertainties.

The immediate effect of this amendment is already being felt across the market, with analysts predicting a surge in investment directed towards gold and silver-related instruments. For years, equity funds have largely been constrained in their ability to leverage the traditional 'safe haven' assets of gold and silver, viewing them as outside their core mandate. This new directive fundamentally alters that paradigm.

A Shift in Regulatory Philosophy

SEBI's decision isn't merely a technical adjustment to investment ceilings; it represents a broader shift in regulatory philosophy. Historically, Indian financial regulation has favored a conservative approach to investment, prioritizing traditional asset classes. However, the increasingly volatile global economic climate, coupled with rising investor demand for diversification, appears to have prompted a reassessment. The recent increase in geopolitical tensions and persistent inflationary pressures have highlighted the need for portfolio strategies that can withstand market shocks.

"We've observed a consistent rise in investor interest in diversifying beyond traditional stocks and bonds," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading economist specializing in alternative investments. "Investors are actively seeking assets that can preserve capital during periods of economic downturn. Gold and silver, with their historically demonstrated resilience, naturally fit that profile. SEBI's move acknowledges this changing investor behavior and empowers fund managers to respond effectively."

Implications for Fund Managers & Investors

The increased allocation limit provides fund managers with considerably more flexibility. They can now utilize gold and silver as strategic components of their portfolio, potentially mitigating downside risk and enhancing overall returns, particularly during market corrections. This flexibility isn't without its challenges, however. Fund managers will be subject to increased scrutiny from SEBI regarding their allocation strategies and will be required to provide detailed reporting on their precious metal holdings.

For investors, the change offers the potential for more balanced and resilient portfolios. While equities remain a cornerstone of long-term growth, the inclusion of gold and silver can provide a buffer against market volatility. However, investors should carefully consider the potential risks and rewards associated with precious metal investments. Gold and silver prices can be volatile in their own right, and their performance isn't always correlated with equity markets.

The Rise of Alternative Assets and Global Trends

This move by SEBI aligns with a global trend toward greater acceptance of alternative assets. Globally, institutional investors are increasingly allocating capital to private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and commodities, including precious metals. This diversification is driven by the search for higher returns and the need to reduce portfolio risk.

Several factors have contributed to this trend. Low interest rates in many developed economies have diminished the appeal of traditional fixed-income investments, prompting investors to seek alternative sources of yield. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of financial markets has created a demand for investment strategies that can generate returns regardless of the economic environment.

Looking Ahead: Potential Impacts and Future Regulations

The long-term impact of this regulatory shift remains to be seen. Analysts anticipate a ripple effect throughout the financial markets, with increased demand for Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) backed by gold and silver, as well as a potential boost for companies involved in precious metal mining and refining. It's also likely that SEBI will continue to monitor the situation closely and may introduce further regulations to ensure investor protection and market stability.

Some industry experts suggest that SEBI may eventually extend the increased allocation limit to other alternative assets, such as real estate investment trusts (REITs) and infrastructure funds. This would further diversify the Indian investment landscape and provide investors with a wider range of options. The success of the current initiative will likely be a key factor in determining the pace and scope of future regulatory changes. Ultimately, SEBI's decision represents a bold step toward a more sophisticated and resilient Indian financial system.