In the wake of a blockbuster 2025 for commodities, Indian retail investors are buzzing with excitement—and a dash of confusion—over where to park their money next.
With fears of missing out (FOMO) running high, experts are pointing to silver and copper as the standout choices among metals to invest in 2026.
As global shifts like de-dollarization and green energy transitions reshape markets, these metals promise higher returns than gold, platinum, or uranium. This timely analysis comes amid fresh warnings of corrections, making smart picks essential for savvy investors.
Gold's Rally: Proceed with Caution
Gold has been a safe haven since 2022, surging due to central bank buying and geopolitical tensions. Ajay Kedia, founder of Kedia Advisory, attributes 70% of last year's gains to de-dollarization. He forecasts gold hitting ₹1.65 lakh per 10 grams by year-end, supported by potential US Federal Reserve rate cuts and rupee weakness.
However, Kedia cautions against over-optimism. "Investors should be ready for a 10-12% correction," he says, noting current prices at ₹1,37,195 per 10 grams (per IBJA data). This makes gold less appealing for aggressive growth seekers among metals to invest in 2026, especially if profit-taking kicks in.
Silver's Shine: High Rewards with Volatility
Silver stole the show in 2025 with a 180% rally, driven by industrial demand in tech and renewables, plus a supply squeeze from China. Aditya Modak, CFO & COO of P N Gadgil & Sons, calls it his top pick: "The fundamentals—like supply shortages—are too strong to ignore."
Sources predicts silver reaching ₹3.20 lakh per kg by 2026 end, from current levels of ₹2,39,994 per kg. Yet, he warns of a 20-25% drop due to profit booking. For retail investors eyeing silver investment, this volatility offers entry points during dips, with long-term bulls backed by rising EV and solar needs.
Copper's Surge: The Industrial Powerhouse
Copper emerged as a dark horse in 2025, up 35-40% amid supply issues in Chile and Indonesia, and booming demand from EVs, solar panels, and infrastructure. 2026 a "game-changer" for copper, expecting 25-30% gains to ₹1,500-1,550 per kg from today's ₹1,278-1,280 on MCX—a potential 21% upside.
"Copper can even replace silver in some applications," Sources adds. He advises waiting for an 8-12% correction before buying, making it a strategic choice for those diversifying in metals to invest in 2026.
Other Contenders: Platinum and Uranium
Platinum soared 150% last year on auto industry demand and green tech uses, with EU policies extending traditional vehicle lifespans. Kedia sees continued upside but no repeat blockbuster.
Uranium, up 12% YoY, benefits from nuclear energy's revival for energy security. While promising, it's niche compared to silver investment or copper rally.
Why This Matters Now: Actionable Takeaways
As commodity rallies evolve amid economic uncertainties, focusing on silver and copper aligns with India's push for sustainable tech. Practical tips:
- Diversify: Allocate 20-30% to these metals via ETFs or futures.
- Monitor corrections: Buy on dips for better entry.
- Consult experts: Track IBJA and MCX for real-time data.
In 2026, smart investors will prioritize fundamentals over hype. Silver and copper aren't just metals—they're bets on the future.
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