Sovereign Gold Bonds: Budget 2026 Just Changed Your Exit

SGBs are discontinued—no new tranche has been issued since February 2024, and the government has confirmed there won't be more.

From 1 April 2026, tax-free maturity gains apply only to original subscribers who hold to the 8-year finish line.

Bought SGBs on the exchange? Your redemption gains are now taxable—12.5% if held over a year, slab rate if under.

Premature redemption after year 5 is no longer tax-free; the early-exit window lost its biggest advantage.

The 2.5% interest was always taxable at your slab rate—only the capital gain was ever exempt.