Gen Z Flips Script: Small Gold, Silver Coins Trump Jewelry Demand

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AuthorVihaan Mehta|Published at:
Gen Z Flips Script: Small Gold, Silver Coins Trump Jewelry Demand
Overview

Young Indian investors are increasingly flocking to micro gold and silver coins, shifting investment focus away from traditional jewelry. Manufacturers report a significant production jump for sub-gram coins, as Gen Z seeks accessible entry points into bullion amid rising prices and strong demand for precious metals as an asset class. This trend contrasts sharply with declining volumes in the jewelry segment.

Young Investors Embrace Micro-Bullion

Gold coins, some weighing less than a gram, are rapidly becoming the preferred asset for India's Gen Z. These young buyers are seeking an entry into the bullion market without substantial capital. Manufacturers in Kerala, a key gold-consuming state, have seen gold coin production surge to 50% of total output in the last six months, up from 20% a year prior. Demand for 100 milligram (0.1 gm) coins has accelerated significantly since Diwali.

Micro-coins, also known as gold beans, now constitute nearly 5% of coin sales, a stark contrast to their negligible presence a year ago. Gold prices hover around ₹1.37 lakh per 10 grams before taxes, pushing buyers towards smaller, more affordable denominations. This shift indicates a growing recognition of gold as a viable investment asset class among younger demographics.

Jewelry Segment Struggles Amid Price Rally

This surge in investment demand for physical gold and silver coins stands in contrast to the weakening jewelry sector. Industry stakeholders report a year-on-year decline in gold jewelry volumes, despite the ongoing wedding season. Elevated prices and affordability concerns are directly impacting consumer spending on discretionary and everyday jewelry items. Price volatility further constrains purchases, leading consumers to favor investment products like bars and coins.

Silver Rally and Investment Outlook

Gen Z is also participating in the significant silver rally, which has seen prices soar by 150% in the past year, outperforming gold's 70% gain. Queries for 1-gram and 2-gram silver coins from young customers have risen. Demand for silver coins saw a 20% increase in the last four months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Fund managers remain bullish on both metals, citing strong safe-haven demand due to geopolitical uncertainty and global economic risks. Industrial demand for silver and central bank accumulation of gold also support a positive outlook. However, caution is advised due to potential profit-booking at higher levels.

Strategic Allocation Advised

Price volatility is expected to persist, driven by geopolitical events, trade policies, and speculative activities. Experts suggest a disciplined approach to asset allocation, recommending 15-20% in precious metals and considering systematic investment plans, especially at current elevated price levels. India's role as a major physical silver market, sometimes exceeding the U.S., highlights the cultural and investment significance of these metals.

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