📅 Introduction
In Nepal, precious metals have long been viewed as safe-haven assets and culturally significant investments. With gold prices reaching all-time highs and silver showing periodic surges, many Nepali investors are asking: Which metal is the smarter investment – gold or silver?
This report provides an in-depth economic analysis of the price trends, volatility, liquidity, affordability, and long-term return potential of gold and silver in Nepal.
Also Check : Gold Price in Nepal Today (Live Update)
📈 Historical Price Comparison (2015–2025)
| Year | Gold (per tola) | Silver (per tola) | Gold/Silver Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | NPR 48,000 | NPR 750 | 64:1 |
| 2018 | NPR 58,200 | NPR 870 | 67:1 |
| 2020 | NPR 92,000 | NPR 1,250 | 74:1 |
| 2022 | NPR 94,500 | NPR 1,350 | 70:1 |
| 2025* | NPR 132,000 | NPR 1,650 | 80:1 |
*Note: 2025 figures are estimated based on mid-year market averages.
🔍 Key Differences: Gold vs Silver in Nepal
| Feature | Gold | Silver |
|---|---|---|
| Market Price (2025) | NPR 132,000 per tola | NPR 1,650 per tola |
| Volatility | Low | High |
| Liquidity | Very High | Medium |
| Cultural Demand | Extremely High (weddings, rituals) | Moderate |
| Industrial Demand | Limited | High (electronics, solar, etc.) |
| Affordability | Low (expensive) | High (budget-friendly) |
| Import Tax & Duties | Higher | Lower |
| Storage & Security | Requires more safety | Easier to store in quantity |
🔢 Volatility & Market Stability
- Gold is more stable in both global and Nepali markets. Its price rises steadily and responds strongly to geopolitical tensions and inflation.
- Silver is far more volatile. Prices fluctuate based on industrial demand, tech cycles, and speculative trading. This makes silver riskier but potentially more rewarding in short bursts.
✅ Economic Insight:
Gold is ideal for capital preservation, while silver is better suited for opportunistic gains if timed right.
💰 Return on Investment (ROI) in Nepal
| Metal | 2015 Price | 2025 Price | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | NPR 48,000 | NPR 132,000 | +175% |
| Silver | NPR 750 | NPR 1,650 | +120% |
- Gold has consistently outperformed silver in Nepal due to currency depreciation, global demand, and import policies.
- Silver has short-term spikes, but overall lags behind gold in ROI.
🏦 Market Accessibility in Nepal
Gold:
- Available in 24K, 22K, and 18K purity.
- Sold widely in cities and villages.
- Preferred for high-value gifting, dowry, and loans.
Silver:
- Commonly available in utensils, coins, and light jewelry.
- Less frequently used in financial instruments or loans.
🛍️ Investment Perspective
| Goal | Recommended Metal |
|---|---|
| Long-term wealth preservation | Gold |
| Affordable savings option | Silver |
| Cultural/religious use | Gold |
| Short-term trading | Silver |
| Loan/collateral purposes | Gold |
🔮 Outlook: What the Future Holds
- Gold prices are likely to keep rising due to continued global instability, central bank buying, and weakening NPR.
- Silver may benefit from rising demand in electronics and green energy sectors, but will remain volatile.
🧠 Conclusion
In Nepal, gold remains the better investment for long-term value, security, and liquidity. However, silver has a place in diversified portfolios due to its affordability and industrial upside.
Investor Tip: Allocate 70% to gold and 30% to silver if you’re building a balanced precious metals portfolio in Nepal.
As the economy evolves and younger investors enter the market, both metals will continue to serve unique roles in the nation’s financial landscape.
