The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) 2018-19 Series I reaches maturity today, May 4, 2026, allowing investors to redeem their bonds at a price of ₹14,901 per unit. This bond series, issued on May 4, 2018, has provided an impressive return of nearly 386%, meaning an initial investment of ₹1 lakh would now be worth approximately ₹4.86 lakh. The redemption price is determined based on the average closing prices of gold over the last three business days before maturity, as published by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association. Investors benefit from a fixed interest rate of 2.5% per annum, paid every six months, although this interest is subject to income tax. A significant advantage of the SGB is that capital gains are tax-free at maturity, provided the bonds are held for the full eight-year period. Early redemption is possible after five years, and bonds can also be traded on stock exchanges like the National Stock Exchange or BSE Limited.