Budget 2026 wish list: Gurmeet Chadha seeks relief from LTCG and special interest rates on gold and silver

With preparations for Budget 2026 in full swing, Complete Circle Consultants’ Managing Partner and CIO Gurmeet Chadha has rolled out his wish list for the government. The market expert is seeking rationalization of long-term capital gains (LTCG) to 10%, monetization of gold and silver by allowing special interest rates on loans, and a fresh push for affordable housing in the upcoming budget.In a candid tweet on

The suggestion comes as the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) begins talks with leading economists. Complete Circle Consultants has proposed three things to the government:“Some suggestions to boost economic momentum as Honorable @PMOIndia meets leading economists.

1. Increase affordable housing loan limit to 25 lacs at special mortgage interest rates of 5-6%… targeting NRIs through campaigns to build your dream home in India. Most laborers, electricians, chefs, welders, drivers, etc. dream of owning a house in their hometown or village. We will see a sharp increase in remittances and an increase in housing construction activity,” Chadha said.

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“2. Monetize gold and silver. Loan against gold and silver at special repo rates plus 200 basis points (7-8%) for 3 months. Include inherited jewelry, bars, coins up to 10 lac,” he said, expressing his second wish. “3. STT collected so far is 36,000 cr. We will end the year at 50,000 cr. Reduce LTCG to 10%. It makes India unattractive globally and spoils investor sentiment,” he added.

Chadha has been pushing for a reduction in the LTCG.

Currently, long-term capital gains on listed shares and mutual fund units are exempt up to Rs 1.25 lakh. These apply to securities held for twelve months or longer. Meanwhile, sales of shares within a year of holding them are subject to a short-term capital gains tax (STCG) of 20%. Before July 23, 2024, this was 15%.

Also read: After adjustments to income tax and GST, Gurmeet Chadha is waiting for the next big step: LTCG reduction

Gold and silver prices have risen sharply this year, delivering the best returns in decades.

“Through 2025, gold is up 65% and silver is up 150%, signaling a year of huge gains and positioning the precious metal for its best annual performance in more than four decades,” an Augmont note said.

Read more: Budget 2026 signals revival in demand and boost for private investment, says Motilal Oswal. BDL, UPL among the 5 stocks to buy

(Disclaimer: The recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions expressed by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times.)