Did Gold ETFs Experience a Remarkable 50% Surge in India This January?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 10 (NationPress) Gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in India witnessed an impressive 50% surge in January, according to figures released by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) on Tuesday. The monthly inflows for gold ETFs exceeded those of the entire equity mutual fund sector, totaling approximately Rs 24,040 crore in January—more than double the Rs 11,647 crore recorded in December, establishing gold as a leading segment for the month.
In contrast, equity mutual fund inflows were recorded at Rs 24,029 crore in January, reflecting a nearly 14% decline from Rs 28,054 crore in December.
The overall mutual fund industry saw a positive shift with total flows reaching Rs 1.56 lakh crore, primarily driven by debt schemes, which achieved net inflows of Rs 74,827 crore, as per the AMFI data.
Hybrid schemes attracted Rs 17,356 crore, while “other schemes,” including ETFs, contributed Rs 39,955 crore.
Despite fluctuations in equity markets, the Assets Under Management (AUM) for mutual funds grew in January, showcasing strong investor engagement, according to analysts.
“The standout performer was undoubtedly gold ETFs, with AUM increasing nearly 50% and monthly inflows surpassing those of the entire equity segment, highlighting the growing trend of financialisation of gold as an investment option,” remarked Varun Gupta, CEO of Groww Mutual Fund.
The mutual fund sector returned to a state of positive net inflows, predominantly fueled by debt schemes. The AUM of open-ended equity-oriented schemes was recorded at Rs 34.86 lakh crore, while open-ended debt-oriented schemes managed Rs 18.90 lakh crore.
Himanshu Srivastava, Principal Research at Morningstar Investment Research India, noted that inflows remained favorable despite market volatility, bolstered by consistent SIP contributions and ongoing confidence in the long-term growth of Indian equities.
The slowdown in overall inflows was primarily attributed to a decrease in the mid- and small-cap segments, although large-cap and focused funds saw improved traction in January, with inflows higher than in December.