Tanishq, Kalyan, Malabar push zero-deduction gold swaps as record prices freeze fresh demand

Leading Indian jewellers are rolling out 100% value exchange schemes on old gold, scrapping the typical 4% deduction seen at chains like CaratLane. With elevated bullion prices and higher import duties deferring fresh purchases, brands are leaning into recycling 22-carat and 18-carat jewellery to keep footfalls and ticket sizes intact.

— Source publishedMon, 18 May, 2026, 19:11 IST·First seen Mon, 18 May, 2026, 20:06 IST·Source NDTV Profit

What happened

Indian jewellers including Tanishq, Kalyan, Malabar and CaratLane are pushing zero-deduction gold exchange schemes as elevated prices and higher import duties

Key facts

  • 100% value exchange
  • 4% deduction CaratLane
  • 22-carat
  • 18-carat

Why this matters

Consolidation window opening for sub-scale regional chains unable to absorb zero-deduction economics; scout distressed family-owned jewellers in tier-2 markets for roll-up targets.