Indian Investors Shift Focus from Stocks to ETFs, Breaking Records in Gold and Silver Investments The era of the stock market as the primary investment avenue for Indians is fading, with a significant shift toward exchange-traded funds (ETFs), particularly those focused on gold and silver. According to the latest financial year (FY26) data, Indian investors have poured over ₹1.81 lakh crore into ETFs, surpassing the previous record of ₹83,390 crore set in the financial year 2021-22. This marks a doubling of investments compared to the previous year, reflecting a growing preference for diversified and safer investment options. The trend highlights a broader transformation in investor behavior, as traditional stock-centric strategies are being replaced by a mix of equity and commodity-based ETFs. For instance, gold ETFs attracted ₹68,868 crore, while silver ETFs received ₹30,412 crore in FY26, collectively accounting for nearly 55% of total ETF investments. This surge in commodity ETFs is driven by factors such as rising gold prices, a search for safety amid economic uncertainties, and tax advantages. Investors in gold and silver ETFs benefit from a shorter holding period for tax exemption compared to physical gold, which requires a 24-month waiting period for long-term capital gains tax benefits. The shift is also evident in the volume of daily trading. ETF transactions, which averaged ₹237 crore per day in FY21, have surged to over ₹4,200 crore daily, with commodity ETFs contributing significantly to this growth. Notably, the record monthly investment of ₹39,000 crore in January 2026 underscores the confidence of Indian investors in navigating market fluctuations through diversified instruments.#gold_etfs #exchange_traded_funds #indian_investors #silver_etfs #vishal_jain
Abdul Samad Rabiu’s net worth surged 120% to $11.2 billion following a 135% rise in BUA Cement shares, positioning him as the third wealthiest individual in Africa according to Forbes’ 2026 list. The sharp increase in BUA Cement’s stock price reflects a broader rally in Nigerian industrial assets, driven by improving foreign exchange stability, stronger construction demand, and renewed investor confidence in African markets. This surge highlights the potential for growth in African industrials, particularly as currency pressures ease and infrastructure projects gain momentum. The rise in BUA Cement shares is attributed to factors such as policy clarity, favorable exchange rate conditions, and signals of increased capital expenditure. These elements have contributed to a revaluation of the company’s assets, benefiting Rabiu’s wealth significantly. The movement underscores the cyclical nature of cement markets, where alignment of pricing, demand, and costs can lead to rapid share price appreciation. Similar patterns have been observed in India’s cement sector during past capacity and pricing upcycles, offering a template for understanding current market dynamics. Investors in India are increasingly looking at African industrials as a potential growth area, particularly with the improved outlook for regional currencies and infrastructure development. The expansion of African billionaire wealth, including Rabiu’s rise, signals broader appetite for quality assets in the region. However, the sector remains volatile, with risks such as currency fluctuations, policy shifts, and liquidity constraints posing challenges. Investors are advised to monitor quarterly disclosures, audit reports, and capital allocation strategies while comparing valuation multiples with regional peers.#nigeria #abudul_samad_rabiu #bua_cement #forbes_2026 #indian_investors
