Egypt’s gold investment funds saw net assets climb to around US$300 million in March, as demand for safe-haven assets strengthened amid ongoing global economic uncertainty, according to the country’s Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA).
The funds recorded total net assets of 9.28 billion Egyptian pounds (about US$300 million), reflecting growing interest in gold-linked investment products that offer exposure without the need for physical ownership.
The number of investor accounts rose to approximately 289,000, highlighting a steadily expanding base as more Egyptians turn to alternative investment options.
Individual investors continue to dominate the segment, accounting for 72 percent of total accounts, compared with 28 percent for institutional investors, underscoring the strong participation of retail savers in the market.
Data from the regulator showed a notable gender gap, with men representing 83 percent of individual investors, while women account for 17 percent.
By age group, younger investors are leading the trend. Those aged between 20 and 30 make up nearly 39.8 percent of total accounts, suggesting a growing appetite among younger Egyptians for relatively low-risk and accessible financial instruments.
The FRA said the number of registered gold investment funds in Egypt reached six by the end of March, pointing to gradual but sustained growth in the sector.
Gold funds have gained traction in recent years as they provide a flexible alternative to holding physical bullion, allowing investors to buy and sell units more easily while avoiding storage and security concerns.
The surge in interest comes at a time of heightened volatility in global financial markets, driven by geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures and shifting monetary policies.
Traditionally viewed as a safe-haven asset, gold tends to attract investors during periods of uncertainty, helping to preserve value when other asset classes come under pressure.
Analysts say the increasing popularity of gold funds in Egypt also reflects rising financial awareness and broader access to investment products, supported by ongoing reforms in the country’s financial sector.
The regulator expects the segment to continue expanding in the coming months, driven by sustained demand for diversified portfolios and growing participation from retail investors.
As economic uncertainty persists globally, gold-backed instruments are likely to remain an attractive option for investors seeking stability and protection against market fluctuations.
