How ETFs Are Taxed in India: A Guide to Taxation Rules, Rates & Benefits with HDFC Mutual Fund Introduction Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are investment vehicles that track indices, commodities, or bonds, offering low-cost, flexible investment options. Understanding ETF taxation in India is vital for assessing your returns. Taxation varies depending on the type of ETF, whether it's equity, debt, or gold. Tax Treatment of ETFs in India Equity ETFs Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): Taxed at 20% if held for less than 12 months. Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): Gains over ₹1 lakh per year are taxed at 12.5% (without indexation) if held for more than 12 months. Example: A ₹1.5 lakh profit on an equity ETF held for 15 months would incur a ₹6,250 tax on the ₹50,000 exceeding the ₹1 lakh exemption. Debt & Gold ETFs Both are taxed according to your income tax slab. The indexation benefit is not available for investments made after April 1, 2023. Tax Benefits for ETF Investors Efficient Tax Planning: Equity ETFs offer tax-efficient long-term growth. Indexation for Debt & Gold ETFs: Helps reduce taxable gains in inflationary periods. No Entry/Exit Load: Lowers transaction costs compared to mutual funds. How to Declare ETF Gains Report ETF gains under the ‘Capital Gains’ schedule in ITR-2 or ITR-3. Disclose STCG and LTCG for equity and non-equity ETFs separately. Conclusion ETFs, especially equity ETFs like those offered by HDFC Mutual Fund, are an effective way to grow wealth, but understanding their tax implications is key for maximizing returns. Consult a tax advisor before making investment decisions. Visit: https://www.hdfcfund.com/learn/blog/how-are-etfs-taxed-india-taxation-rules-rates-benefits-explained