GCash opens digital gold investing to Filipinos amid volatility

Insider Spotlight

• GCash introduces gold-backed investments on GCrypto powered by Tether
• Users can start investing in digital gold for as low as P200
• Launch comes as inflation accelerated to 7.2 percent in April 2026
• GCash positions gold as a hedge against market volatility and peso weakness
  
  
  

As inflation and geopolitical tensions weigh on household finances, GCash is positioning digital gold as a more accessible investment option for Filipinos seeking stability during uncertain times.

The finance super app said it has launched Gold on GCrypto, allowing users to buy tokenized gold backed 1:1 by physical bullion stored in Swiss vaults through Tether Gold ($XAUT). The offering enables users to invest in gold directly within the GCash app starting at P200.

The move comes as rising oil prices and escalating Middle East tensions fuel broader market volatility, while inflation in the Philippines climbed to 7.2 percent in April 2026 from 4.1 percent in March, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Why it matters

Gold has long been viewed as a safe-haven asset during periods of economic uncertainty, often attracting investors looking to preserve purchasing power as currencies weaken and prices rise.

GCash said the digital format lowers traditional barriers associated with gold ownership, such as high upfront costs, storage, insurance, and transport.

“Today, Filipinos are looking for ways to protect the value of their hard-earned money amid rising inflation and everyday financial pressures. By offering Gold in GCrypto, GCash is making gold investing, traditionally seen as an exclusive store of value, more accessible on GCash,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash.

“We’re removing barriers and enabling more Filipinos to take part in building long-term financial resilience, right within a platform they already trust and use every day.”

The bigger picture

GCash cited historical data showing the Philippine peso depreciated by around 20 to 25 percent against the US dollar from 2016 to 2026, while gold prices climbed roughly 290 percent over the same period.

Each Tether Gold token represents ownership of one fine troy ounce of physical gold that meets London Bullion Market Association standards for “Good Delivery” bars with at least 99.5 percent purity.

Users can buy, sell, and monitor their gold holdings around the clock through the GCash app under the “Invest” and “GCrypto” sections.

By integrating gold investing into a widely used mobile wallet, GCash is betting that more Filipinos will turn to alternative assets that can help protect and grow their money amid continuing economic uncertainty.---Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma