Gold exchange-traded funds recorded inflows of ₹8,363 crore in September, a 578% year-on-year increase amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty and volatile equity markets. Analysts say investors sought safety ahead of elections and global rate cuts. Domestic fund houses added over 3 tonnes to their gold holdings during the month. Wealth advisors expect allocation to gold to stay above 5% of portfolios through FY26 as inflation hedges gain appeal and festive buying supports bullion sentiment.