RBI Releases SGB Early Redemption Schedule: 33 Sovereign Gold Bond Tranches Eligible in Next 6 Months

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has published the latest calendar for premature redemption of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs), giving investors a clear timeline to exit select bond series early. According to the announcement, a total of 33 tranches issued between 2018–19 and 2021–22 will become eligible for early redemption over the next six months.

This facility applies to SGBs completing five years from their date of issue, in line with RBI’s guidelines dated October 22, 2021.

Key Timeline: April to September 2026

The early redemption window covers bonds whose optional exit dates fall between April 1 and September 30, 2026. Investors holding eligible series can submit redemption requests during the specified application windows.

• First eligible tranche: 2018–19 Series II

  • Issue date: October 23, 2018

  • Early redemption date: April 23, 2026

  • Application window: March 23 to April 13, 2026

• Last eligible tranche in this cycle: 2019–20 Series X

  • Early redemption date: September 11, 2026

  • Application window: August 11 to September 1, 2026

Investors are strongly advised to verify their specific series and corresponding window to avoid missing the opportunity.

33 Tranches Included

As per the RBI schedule, the following broad groups are covered:

• Multiple series from 2018–19

• Several tranches from 2019–20

• Issues from 2020–21

• Selected bonds from 2021–22 (up to Series VI)

Each tranche becomes eligible only after completing five years from the issue date. Importantly, every series has its own redemption and application window, which investors must track carefully.

Why This Matters for Investors

Sovereign Gold Bonds typically have an eight-year maturity, but the premature redemption option allows investors to exit after five years on specified interest payment dates. This provides flexibility for those who may want to rebalance their portfolio or book profits.

With gold prices remaining volatile, the newly released calendar helps investors plan:

• Liquidity needs

• Portfolio reallocation

• Profit booking strategies

However, financial planners generally recommend comparing the redemption price with prevailing gold market rates before making a decision.

How to Apply for Early Redemption

Eligible investors can submit their requests through multiple channels:

• Authorized bank branches and post offices

• Depositories such as NSDL or CDSL

• The RBI Retail Direct platform

Applications must be submitted within the specified window for each tranche. Missing the deadline means investors will have to wait for the next eligible exit date or hold till maturity.

Important Advisory from RBI

The RBI has cautioned that redemption dates may change if an unexpected public holiday is declared. Investors should therefore monitor official updates closely.

Given that each tranche has a different schedule, market experts recommend:

• Checking the bond series in your holding statement

• Marking the application window in advance

• Submitting requests early within the window

Bottom Line

The latest SGB premature redemption calendar offers a timely opportunity for investors holding older bond series to exit early if needed. With 33 tranches opening over the next six months, careful tracking of dates will be crucial.

Investors should review their financial goals, compare gold price trends, and consult a financial advisor if necessary before initiating redemption.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should verify details from official RBI sources and consult a qualified advisor before making financial decisions.