Gold goes digital on Dhanteras as NSE clocks 1.8 lakh EGR trades in one day

Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs), a relatively new product introduced by the National Stock Exchange (NSE), crossed a major milestone on Dhanteras on Friday, with trading volumes exceeding one lakh units in a single session as investors explored exchange-traded alternatives to buying physical gold.

According to NSE data, the EGR contract recorded a trading volume of 1,81,763 units, with total traded value reaching Rs 26.46 crore. The milestone comes less than six months after the exchange began live trading in electronic gold receipts on May 18, 2026, as part of its efforts to develop a regulated market for trading physical gold in electronic form.

The development is particularly significant on Dhanteras, when millions of Indian households traditionally purchase gold and silver as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. The increase in trading activity suggests growing interest in exchange-based gold products, although the longer-term success of EGRs will depend on sustained participation and liquidity beyond the festive season.


The EGR contract opened at Rs 1,460 per unit and touched an intraday high of Rs 1,460, while its lowest traded price stood at Rs 1,450.20. The last traded price was Rs 1,456, down 7.5% from the previous close of Rs 1,574, according to exchange data reported on Friday.

What are Electronic Gold Receipts?

Electronic Gold Receipts are securities that represent ownership of physical gold stored in vaults accredited by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi).

Unlike conventional gold purchases, where buyers take possession of coins, bars or jewellery, EGR investors hold their gold electronically in a demat account, similar to shares.

Each receipt is backed by physical gold held in authorised vaults. Investors can buy and sell the receipts on the stock exchange and, subject to the applicable procedures and minimum withdrawal quantities, convert their electronic holdings into physical gold.

The product is designed to bring greater transparency to gold trading by allowing prices to be discovered through an organised exchange platform.

NSE formally launched its EGR segment on May 4, 2026, before commencing live trading two weeks later. At the time of its launch, the exchange said the initiative would help bring India's large physical gold market closer to the formal financial system.

The platform offers gold receipts in different denominations and purity standards, including 995 and 999 purity, allowing investors to choose products based on their investment requirements.

The range includes units linked to small quantities of gold, making electronic ownership accessible to investors who may prefer smaller purchases.