I have sold my i 20 car purchased in 2012 for 3.15 lacs in July 2023.. Do I need to pay income tax for this money for the current AY and should I need to disclose this amount in my return?

Ans: While Gullak offers a seemingly convenient way to invest in gold, there are some potential risks to consider:

Unregulated "Gold+" Program: The "Gold+" program's guaranteed 5% extra gold is a unique feature, but it's not entirely clear how Gullak achieves this. Since this program is unregulated, there's less oversight compared to SEBI-regulated mutual funds.
Counterparty Risk: Gullak mentions a 100% bank guarantee on your gold investment. However, the details of this guarantee and the specific bank involved are crucial. In case of any issue with the bank, there's a chance your investment might be impacted.
Limited Transparency: Compared to mutual funds, Gullak might not be as transparent about their fees and overall investment structure. This can make it difficult to fully understand the associated costs and risks.
Potential Hidden Costs: While Gullak might advertise low fees, there could be hidden costs associated with storage, insurance, or selling your gold holdings. Make sure you understand all the fees involved before investing.

Mutual Fund Gold:

Safety: Mutual funds are regulated by SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) which adds a layer of security. Your investment represents units in the fund, not physical gold, but the underlying gold is typically stored in secure vaults.
Returns: Gold Mutual Funds invest in physical gold, reflecting the market price. You won't get a guaranteed bonus like with Gullak Gold+, but your returns are tied directly to the gold price's performance.
Liquidity: Gold Mutual Funds are generally quite liquid, allowing you to redeem your units on exchange platforms.
Here's why Mutual Fund Gold might be a better choice:

Transparency: Mutual Funds are more transparent in their holdings and fees compared to Gullak's "Gold+" program.
Flexibility: Mutual Funds offer various gold investment options with different expense ratios. You can choose a fund that suits your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
Market Exposure: Mutual Funds can offer exposure to gold along with diversification within the gold sector (e.g., international gold).

Why Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is Wise:
A CFP is a financial professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific financial situation and goals. Here's why consulting a CFP can be beneficial:

Risk Assessment: A CFP can help you assess your risk tolerance and determine if Gullak or Mutual Fund Gold is a suitable investment for you.
Portfolio Diversification: A CFP can advise you on how to incorporate gold into a diversified portfolio to manage risk and meet your long-term goals.
Understanding Gullak's "Gold+" Program: A CFP can help you analyze the details and potential risks associated with Gullak's "Gold+" program.
Comparison with Mutual Funds: A CFP can compare Gullak with various gold mutual fund options, considering factors like fees, expense ratios, and historical performance.
Remember: Financial planning is personal. Consulting a CFP can empower you to make informed investment decisions aligned with your unique circumstances.