INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025
Changing Patterns of Gold Investment: A Comparative Study of
Gen-Z and Older Adults
Dr. Nilesh T. Waghmare
Assistant Professor, Department of Accountancy and Costing, Symbiosis College of Arts and
Commerce, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune – 411004.
Received: 14 December 2025; Accepted: 21 December 2025; Published: 01 January 2026
ABSTRACT:
In India, gold has long been regarded as a secure and dependable investment. New methods of purchasing gold
have been made available by digital platforms in recent years, drawing in younger investors. The preferences of
Gen-Z and older adults with regard to physical and digital gold are compared in this study. The study assesses
their degree of awareness, the rationale behind selecting a specific form, and the influence of digitalization on
investment choices. A questionnaire is used to gather primary data, which is then subjected to basic statistical
analysis. The results show a distinct generational gap in gold investment decisions.
Keywords: Digital Gold, Physical Gold, Gen-Z Investment, Traditional Investors, Fintech, Investment
Behaviour etc.
INTRODUCTION:
Gold has always served as a pillar of dependability and financial security in India's social structure. Gold has
long been a popular choice for investors worldwide, both as a financial hedge and as an investment with
sentimental and cultural significance. Purchasing physical manifestations of gold, such as intricate jewelry,
government-minted coins, or gold bars, was the preferred method of investing in the metal for a long time
because it provided a great deal of material and psychological comfort to be able to handle, inspect, and store
the asset yourself.
However, during the past two years, technology has significantly altered the gold investing industry. The growth
of "digital gold" as a practical and alluring choice is aided by the creation of fintech ecosystems and super-apps.
With this new gold format, investors can purchase tiny fractions of gold electronically without having to deal
with the difficulties of physical storage, the risk of theft, or the need to confirm purity. Younger demographics
are better suited to this strategy because they are less interested in traditional modes of ownership and value
digital speed and convenience as well as lower barriers to entry.
Still, older generations are steadfast in their devotion to tangible gold because they were raised purchasing it in
the "normal" manner and believe that their possessions provide increased security. The younger demographic
views the asset as a digitally liquid, easily operational tool, whereas the older demographic finds security in
physically holding something. This demographic divergence reflects a fundamental shift in investment
philosophy.
Need for the Study:
A quick investigation was required to document the shift in investor behavior in the modern era due to the
disruption of traditional asset acquisition methods brought about by digital financial platforms. It is becoming
more important to look into whether digital gold is taking the place of physical gold for Gen-Z investors or if it
is still a complementary asset as younger generations are drawn to fintech solutions. This study aims to determine
the precise roles that trust, systemic awareness, and operational convenience play in these investment decisions
for various age groups. In the end, this intergenerational study aims to bridge the gap so that both younger and
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