Best Gold ETFs in India in March 2026: LIC MF, ICICI Prudential, HDFC, SBI and More Based on 5-Year CAGR

Gold exchange traded funds (ETFs) continue to attract investor interest as a portfolio diversification tool, particularly during periods of market uncertainty and inflation concerns. These funds provide exposure to gold prices without the need to hold physical bullion, combining liquidity with market linked returns.

With gold prices witnessing strong momentum over the past few years, several Gold ETFs have delivered consistent long term performance. Based on 5-year CAGR, multiple funds across leading asset management companies stand out for investors evaluating gold allocation opportunities in March 2026.

Top Gold ETFs in India for March 2026 Based on 5-Year CAGR

Note: The data above is as of March 2, 2026 and is ranked and sorted based on 5-year CAGR.

Overview of Top Gold ETFs for March 2026

1. LIC MF Gold ETF

LIC MF Gold ETF leads the list based on 5-year CAGR performance. The fund aims to mirror domestic gold prices by investing in physical gold of high purity.

Key Metrics:

• 1M Return: -0.22%
• Expense Ratio: 0.41%

2. Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold ETF

Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold ETF has delivered competitive long-term returns supported by efficient tracking of gold price movements. 

The fund provides investors with exchange-traded liquidity while maintaining exposure to bullion backed assets.

Key Metrics:

• 1M Return: 0.74%
• Expense Ratio: 0.47%

3. ICICI Prudential Gold ETF

ICICI Prudential Gold ETF remains among the larger gold ETFs by market capitalisation. The scheme focuses on closely replicating gold price performance, offering investors a transparent and market linked investment structure.

Key Metrics:

• 1M Return: -0.13%
• Expense Ratio: 0.50%

4. Axis Gold ETF

Axis Gold ETF has recorded steady long-term returns, reflecting consistent alignment with underlying gold price trends. ETFs of this category are often considered for portfolio diversification due to their relatively low correlation with equities.

Key Metrics:

• 1M Return: 0.71%
• Expense Ratio: 0.56%

5. Quantum Gold Fund

Quantum Gold Fund provides indirect gold exposure through ETF structures and physical gold holdings. It is generally considered by investors looking for systematic allocation to precious metals within diversified portfolios.

Key Metrics:

• 1M Return: -1.66%
• Expense Ratio: 0.56%

Gold ETFs Ranked by Expense Ratio

Note: The data above is as of March 2, 2026 and is sorted based on expense ratio.

Read More: SEBI Mandates Exchange Spot Prices for Valuation of Gold and Silver Held by Mutual Funds.

Conclusion

Gold ETFs continue to play a role as diversification instruments within investment portfolios. The March 2026 list highlights funds that have delivered relatively consistent long term performance based on 5-year CAGR metrics. Investors may evaluate factors such as expense ratios, liquidity, and investment objectives before allocating to gold focused funds.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Mutual fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.