Get the latest updates on the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25, including issue dates, expected interest rates, tax benefits & price forecasts. Learn how to invest, track SGB rates today & maximize returns. Stay ahead with expert insights!
Brief Overview of the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme
The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme is a government-backed investment initiative launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on behalf of the Government of India. Introduced in 2015, the scheme provides investors with an alternative to purchasing physical gold while offering the benefits of price appreciation and fixed interest income.
SGBs are denominated in grams of gold, allowing investors to buy gold in a digital form. These bonds offer a fixed interest rate of 2.50 percent per annum, payable semi-annually, in addition to potential capital gains if gold prices increase. Since these bonds are issued by the government, they come with no risk of theft, storage issues, or impurity concerns.
Importance of Investing in SGBs for 2024-25
Investing in the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme for 2024-25 is a strategic decision for individuals looking for a secure and rewarding investment. With gold historically serving as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties, SGBs provide a stable and tax-efficient way to invest in gold.
Key reasons to consider SGBs in 2024-25 include:
- Gold prices are expected to remain strong due to global economic uncertainty.
- SGBs offer an interest income of 2.50 percent per annum, which physical gold does not provide.
- Investors benefit from tax exemptions on capital gains if the bonds are held until maturity.
- Unlike physical gold, there are no storage costs, making it a hassle-free investment.
- The bonds are backed by the Government of India, ensuring security and reliability.
For long-term investors, the upcoming SGB scheme presents an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to gold without the risks associated with physical ownership.
Who Should Invest in the Upcoming Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25?
The SGB scheme is best suited for investors who are looking for a combination of safety, returns, and long-term wealth creation. It is an ideal investment option for:
- Long-term investors planning to hold gold investments for at least eight years.
- Individuals who want protection against inflation and economic instability.
- Tax-conscious investors looking for exemptions on capital gains after maturity.
- Investors seeking regular interest income in addition to gold price appreciation.
- Portfolio diversifiers who want to include a stable, non-equity investment.
However, SGBs may not be suitable for those looking for short-term profits, as they come with a five-year lock-in period before early redemption is allowed.
The upcoming Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme for 2024-25 offers a reliable and tax-efficient way to invest in gold. With the security of a government-backed scheme and the potential for long-term gains, SGBs remain one of the most attractive investment options for Indian investors.
What is the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme?
Definition and Background of the SGB Scheme
The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme is a government-backed investment program introduced by the Government of India in November 2015 to encourage digital gold investment. It is issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on behalf of the government as an alternative to physical gold. The scheme allows investors to own gold in a digital format while earning fixed interest income and benefiting from price appreciation.
The primary objective of the SGB scheme is to reduce the demand for physical gold and promote financial investments in gold-backed assets. By investing in SGBs, individuals can enjoy the benefits of gold investment without the drawbacks of storage costs, purity concerns, or risk of theft.
How It Works: Issuance, Maturity, and Interest Rate
The Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme operates through periodic issuances by the Reserve Bank of India in tranches. Investors can purchase these bonds through banks, post offices, stock exchanges, and online platforms during the issuance period.
Key Features of the SGB Scheme:
- Issuance: Investors buy SGBs based on the prevailing gold price set by the RBI, which is linked to the Indian Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) rates. The bonds are issued in denominations of grams of gold, with a minimum investment of one gram and a maximum limit of four kilograms for individuals and twenty kilograms for institutions per financial year.
- Tax Benefits: If held until maturity, capital gains tax is completely exempt, making SGBs a tax-efficient investment. However, if redeemed before maturity, capital gains tax is applicable as per prevailing tax laws.
- Maturity: The bonds have a tenure of eight years, with an option to exit after the fifth year on interest payment dates. Investors can also sell SGBs in the secondary market (stock exchanges) before maturity.
- Interest Rate: SGBs offer a fixed interest rate of 2.50% per annum, payable semi-annually. This is an added advantage compared to physical gold, which does not provide any interest income.
Comparison of SGB vs Physical Gold vs Gold ETFs
| Feature | Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) | Physical Gold | Gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form of Investment | Digital certificate | Gold bars, coins, jewelry | Electronic (traded on stock exchanges) |
| Returns | Gold price appreciation + 2.50% fixed interest | Gold price appreciation only | Gold price appreciation only |
| Storage & Security | No storage costs or theft risk | Risk of theft and storage costs | No storage costs, held in Demat account |
| Liquidity | Can be sold in the secondary market; early redemption after 5 years | Can be sold anytime, but with making and resale charges | High liquidity, can be sold anytime on the exchange |
| Tax Benefits | No capital gains tax if held until maturity | Capital gains tax applicable | Capital gains tax applicable |
| Purity Concerns | Guaranteed purity, government-backed | Risk of impurity or fraud | Backed by gold, but managed by fund houses |
| Suitable for | Long-term investors looking for steady returns | Short-term buyers, jewelry consumers | Active traders, investors looking for short-term flexibility |
The Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme offers a superior investment alternative to physical gold and gold ETFs due to its interest earnings, tax benefits, and zero storage costs. It is an ideal choice for long-term investors who want to invest in gold securely while earning additional returns.
Upcoming Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25: Release Dates & Notifications
SGB 2024-25 Release Dates (Official & Expected Schedules)
As of February 22, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not officially announced the release dates for the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme 2024-25. Historically, the RBI issues SGBs in multiple tranches throughout the financial year.
For instance, during the 2023-24 series, tranches were offered in June, September, December, and February. Based on this pattern, investors can anticipate a similar schedule for 2024-25, with the first tranche likely in June 2024. However, these are projections, and official dates will be confirmed by the RBI in due course.
Where to Check the Sovereign Gold Bond Upcoming Issues 2024
To stay informed about the upcoming SGB issues for 2024-25, consider the following reliable sources:
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Official Website: The RBI publishes press releases and notifications regarding SGB issuances. Regularly visiting their official website will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Reputable Financial News Portals: Websites like The Economic Times and Business Standard often cover announcements related to SGBs.
- Ministry of Finance Press Releases: The Ministry often releases details about financial schemes, including SGBs. Their announcements can be accessed through the Press Information Bureau.
- Authorized Banks and Financial Institutions: Many banks, such as HDFC Bank, provide updates on SGB subscription windows and related information.
SGB Notification & Official Announcements (How to Stay Updated)
Staying updated with official announcements ensures timely participation in the SGB scheme. Here are some effective strategies:
- Regularly Check Official Websites: Make it a habit to visit the official websites of the RBI and Ministry of Finance for the latest press releases and notifications.
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Many financial institutions and news portals offer newsletters that provide updates on investment opportunities, including SGBs.
- Set Up Alerts: Utilize tools like Google Alerts with keywords such as "Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25" to receive notifications when new information is available.
- Follow Official Social Media Channels: The RBI and Ministry of Finance maintain active social media profiles where they post timely updates.
Expected Subscription Period & Allotment Dates
While official dates for the 2024-25 series are yet to be announced, examining previous trends can provide insights:
- Subscription Period: Typically, each tranche remains open for subscription for five days. For example, the Series IV of 2023-24 was open from February 12 to February 16, 2024.
- Allotment Date: The issuance of bonds usually occurs a week after the subscription period ends. In the aforementioned example, bonds were issued on February 21, 2024.
Based on this pattern, if a tranche opens in June 2024, the subscription might be available for five days, with bonds issued approximately a week later. Investors should await official notifications for precise dates.
Expected Sovereign Gold Bond Interest Rates & Returns for 2024-25
Historical Interest Rates of SGBs
The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme was introduced by the Government of India in November 2015 as an alternative to physical gold investments. Since its inception, the scheme has offered a fixed annual interest rate of 2.50%, payable semi-annually, on the initial investment amount.
This interest is over and above the potential appreciation in the value of the gold. For instance, if an individual invested in an SGB when the issue price was ₹5,000 per gram, they would receive ₹125 per gram annually as interest, irrespective of the prevailing gold price.
What to Expect for SGB 2024-25 Interest Rates?
As of February 22, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not announced any new tranches for the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme for the 2024-25 financial year. Historically, the interest rate for SGBs has remained consistent at 2.50% per annum since the scheme's launch. However, recent reports suggest that the government is reconsidering the continuation of the SGB scheme due to concerns about its financial viability and effectiveness in curbing physical gold imports.
In August 2024, it was reported that the scheme had become expensive for the government and had not significantly reduced gold imports. Consequently, the government has not issued any new series after February 2024. Therefore, potential investors should stay updated through official channels for any announcements regarding future issuances and interest rates.
RBI & Government Trends on Gold Bond Interest Calculations
The RBI and the Government of India have maintained a fixed interest rate of 2.50% per annum on SGBs since the scheme's inception. This rate is determined based on the initial investment amount and is paid semi-annually. The interest income is taxable as per the investor's income tax slab.
Additionally, while the capital gains arising from the redemption of SGBs upon maturity are exempt from tax, any gains from the sale of bonds in the secondary market before maturity are subject to capital gains tax. Given the recent discussions about the scheme's future, investors are advised to consult official RBI notifications and reputable financial news sources for the most current information on interest rates and policy changes related to the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme.
Price Forecast & Historical Performance of Sovereign Gold Bonds
Current Sovereign Gold Bond Rate Today & Past Performance
As of February 22, 2025, the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme has not seen new issuances since February 2024. The last issued SGBs were priced at ₹6,263 per gram for offline applications and ₹6,213 per gram for online applications.
In the secondary market, SGBs continue to be traded, with prices reflecting the prevailing gold rates. For instance, the SGB Tranche VI is currently trading at ₹7,758.20 per unit.
Historically, SGBs have mirrored the performance of physical gold. In 2024, gold prices in India experienced significant growth, surpassing ₹80,000 per 10 grams, marking over a 26% increase.
Factors Influencing Gold Price Prediction in 2024-25
Several factors are poised to influence gold prices in the 2024-25 period:
- Central Bank Purchases: Emerging economies, notably Russia and China, have been increasing their gold reserves as a hedge against financial instability and to diversify away from the U.S. dollar. This trend is expected to continue, supporting gold prices.
- Inflation Concerns: Persistent inflation can erode purchasing power, leading investors to seek assets like gold that traditionally retain value.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing global political uncertainties, including conflicts and trade disputes, often drive investors toward safe-haven assets like gold, potentially elevating its price.
- Monetary Policy: Decisions by major central banks regarding interest rates can impact gold prices. Lower interest rates typically make gold more attractive as an investment.
Long-Term Benefits of Investing in SGBs
Investing in Sovereign Gold Bonds offers several advantages:
- Capital Appreciation: SGBs provide returns equivalent to the rise in gold prices over time.
Liquidity: SGBs can be traded on stock exchanges, offering liquidity to investors. - Fixed Interest Income: Investors receive a fixed annual interest rate of 2.50% on the initial investment amount, payable semi-annually.
- Tax Benefits: Capital gains tax arising on redemption of SGBs to an individual is exempted.
- Safety and Purity: SGBs eliminate the risks associated with physical gold, such as theft and purity concerns.
Tax Benefits & Investment Advantages of SGBs
Sovereign Gold Bond Tax Benefits
Investing in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) offers multiple tax advantages that make them a preferred option over physical gold and gold ETFs.
- Capital Gains Tax Exemption: If held until maturity (8 years), the capital gains arising on redemption are completely tax-free for individual investors.
- Interest Taxation: The annual 2.50% interest earned on SGBs is taxable as per the investor’s income tax slab. However, since the interest is paid semi-annually, it provides a steady income flow.
- Indexation Benefit: If an investor sells SGBs in the secondary market before maturity, long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) applies with indexation benefits, reducing the tax liability.
How SGBs Outperform Physical Gold & Gold ETFs in Taxation
Compared to physical gold and gold ETFs, SGBs offer distinct advantages in taxation:
| Feature | Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) | Physical Gold | Gold ETFs & Gold Mutual Funds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax on Interest | Taxable (as per slab) | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Capital Gains on Maturity | Tax-Free | 20% with indexation (LTCG) | 20% with indexation (LTCG) |
| Capital Gains on Premature Sale | 20% with indexation (LTCG) if sold after 3 years | 20% with indexation (LTCG) if held for more than 3 years | 20% with indexation (LTCG) if held for more than 3 years |
| Wealth Tax | Not Applicable | Applicable | Not Applicable |
| GST on Purchase | No GST | 3% GST on purchase | No GST |
SGBs clearly offer better tax efficiency, making them a superior choice for long-term investors looking to minimize tax liability.
Lock-in Period & Premature Redemption Options
- Lock-in Period: The SGB scheme has an 8-year tenure, but early redemption is allowed after 5 years on interest payout dates.
- Premature Redemption:
- Investors can exit via the secondary market on stock exchanges before 5 years.
- Capital gains tax applies if sold before maturity, but indexation benefits help reduce tax liability.
- Liquidity via Stock Exchange: Unlike physical gold, SGBs can be traded in the secondary market, providing an additional exit option for investors.
SGBs combine tax benefits, capital appreciation, and security, making them a smart investment choice for those looking to invest in gold while minimizing tax burdens.
How to Buy Sovereign Gold Bonds in 2024-25?
Investing in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) is a straightforward process, and they can be purchased through multiple channels. Below is a comprehensive guide on where and how to buy them, along with the eligibility criteria and required documents.
Where to Buy?
Sovereign Gold Bonds are issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on behalf of the Government of India and can be purchased through the following channels:
- Banks: All scheduled commercial banks (except small finance banks and payment banks) offer SGBs.
- Post Offices: Selected post offices across India facilitate SGB purchases.
- Stock Exchanges: Investors can buy and sell SGBs through BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange) and NSE (National Stock Exchange).
- Online Platforms: Many banks and financial institutions allow online applications through their net banking portals and mobile apps. A discount of ₹50 per gram is provided for online purchases.
- Authorized Agents & Brokers: SEBI-authorized agents and financial intermediaries also facilitate SGB transactions.
Step-by-Step Guide to SGB Purchase Process
Check the Upcoming Issue Dates:
- The RBI announces the issue dates for each SGB tranche. Investors should check the official notification or visit their bank’s website.
Choose the Purchase Channel:
- Decide whether to buy through a bank, post office, or online platform. Online purchases offer a ₹50 per gram discount.
Fill Out the Application Form:
- Investors need to complete the SGB application form, which is available at banks, post offices, or online platforms.
Provide Required Documents:
- Submit KYC documents such as PAN Card (mandatory), Aadhaar, and bank details.
Make the Payment:
- Payments can be made via cheque, demand draft, internet banking, UPI, or debit card. Cash payments are allowed only up to ₹20,000.
Receive Confirmation & Certificate of Holding:
- Upon successful subscription, investors receive a confirmation email or SMS. The Certificate of Holding is issued by RBI and can be downloaded from the bank or post office portal.
Trading & Redemption Options:
- Investors can trade the SGBs on stock exchanges after they are listed. Premature redemption is allowed after 5 years on interest payment dates.
Eligibility Criteria & Required Documents
To invest in Sovereign Gold Bonds, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- Eligible Investors:
- Resident individuals
- Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)
- Trusts, universities, and charitable institutions
- Minors (application must be made by a guardian)
- Required Documents:
- PAN Card (mandatory for all applicants)
- Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Voter ID for identity verification
- Bank account details for interest payments and redemption
- Address proof (if required by the issuing bank or post office)
By following these steps, investors can easily purchase SGBs and benefit from a secure, government-backed investment in gold.
How to Track Sovereign Gold Bond Rates Today?
Tracking the latest Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) rates is essential for investors looking to buy, sell, or monitor their investment performance. Below are the best sources and methods to stay updated on real-time SGB prices, RBI announcements, and market trends.
Sources to Check Real-Time SGB Rates
Investors can check the latest sovereign gold bond rate today using the following platforms:
-
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Website
- RBI publishes the official SGB issue price for each tranche before subscription opens.
- Visit the RBI’s official website under the "Sovereign Gold Bond" section for updates.
- Stock Exchanges – NSE & BSE
-
Bank & Post Office Websites
- Leading banks such as SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and post offices update their websites with the latest SGB issue price and buying options.
- Check their investment or gold bond sections for real-time rates.
-
Gold Price Tracking Websites & Apps
- Websites like MCX India, Investing.com, and LiveMint provide updated gold prices, which can help predict future SGB pricing.
- Mobile apps such as Moneycontrol, ET Markets, and Zerodha Varsity also display SGB trading prices.
-
Newspapers & Financial News Portals
- Economic Times, Business Standard, and Moneycontrol publish RBI notifications and gold bond price movements.
RBI Gold Bond News & Price Updates
The RBI determines the issue price of each SGB tranche based on the average closing price of gold (999 purity) from IBJA (Indian Bullion and Jewellers Association Ltd.) over the previous three working days before the subscription period.
- RBI notifies the public about upcoming SGB issues, maturity dates, and premature redemption windows through press releases.
- Investors can check RBI’s official notifications for detailed updates.
Best Ways to Stay Updated on SGB Notifications
-
Subscribe to RBI Email & SMS Alerts
- Investors can sign up for RBI notifications via email or SMS to get timely updates.
-
Follow Financial News Portals
- Websites like Moneycontrol, Economic Times, and BloombergQuint provide real-time alerts on SGB issues.
-
Bank & Post Office Alerts
- Major banks notify customers via email, SMS, and mobile banking notifications about the latest SGB tranches.
-
Stock Market Alerts & Brokerage Apps
- Investors using Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, and ICICI Direct can set price alerts for SGBs to track fluctuations in trading prices.
-
Social Media & Telegram Groups
- Financial experts and government agencies provide SGB-related updates on Twitter, Telegram, and LinkedIn. Following official RBI handles can help investors stay informed.
By using these methods, investors can effortlessly track sovereign gold bond rates, stay informed about market movements, and make well-informed investment decisions.
Risks & Limitations of Investing in Sovereign Gold Bonds
While the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme offers several advantages, such as tax benefits and fixed interest income, investors should also consider the risks and limitations before investing. Below are some key concerns associated with SGB investments.
Market Volatility & Gold Price Fluctuations
- Gold price risk: The value of an SGB depends on the prevailing gold market price at the time of redemption. If gold prices fall, investors may experience capital losses despite earning annual interest on their investment.
- Global economic factors: Gold prices are influenced by inflation, interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and USD-INR exchange rates. Market fluctuations can impact the return on investment.
Lock-In Period Constraints & Liquidity Concerns
- Fixed tenure of 8 years: SGBs have a maturity period of 8 years, which may not be suitable for short-term investors.
- Limited premature exit options: Unlike physical gold, SGBs cannot be liquidated anytime. Premature withdrawal is only allowed after the 5th year, on interest payout dates.
- No interim withdrawals: Unlike gold ETFs or mutual funds, investors cannot sell or redeem SGBs before the lock-in period, restricting liquidity.
Premature Withdrawal Rules & Selling Options
-
Early redemption after 5 years
- Investors can exit after 5 years on interest payout dates by redeeming bonds directly with RBI.
- The redemption amount depends on the prevailing gold price at the time.
-
Selling on the stock exchange
- SGBs are tradable on NSE & BSE after a few weeks of issuance. Investors can sell their bonds before maturity, but liquidity depends on market demand.
- The trading price may be lower than the actual gold price, leading to potential losses.
-
Capital gains tax on premature exit
- Selling SGBs before maturity (8 years) on the stock exchange may attract capital gains tax as per applicable rates.
- Tax-free redemption is available only at maturity (8 years) when redeemed with RBI.
While SGBs are a secure, interest-earning alternative to physical gold, they may not be ideal for those needing high liquidity or short-term investments. Investors should assess their financial goals, risk appetite, and the holding period before investing in the upcoming Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme 2024-25 presents an excellent opportunity for investors seeking a secure, tax-efficient, and interest-earning alternative to physical gold. Issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on behalf of the Government of India, SGBs offer a fixed annual interest of 2.5% along with potential capital appreciation linked to gold prices.
Recap of Key Benefits of SGB 2024-25
- Safety & Sovereign Guarantee – Backed by the Government of India, eliminating risks like theft or purity concerns.
- Tax Benefits – No capital gains tax on maturity, making it a tax-efficient investment option.
- Additional Interest Income – Earn 2.5% annual interest on the initial investment, unlike physical gold.
- No Storage Hassles – Digital ownership removes concerns about safekeeping and making charges.
- Liquidity & Trading Flexibility – Listed on stock exchanges (NSE & BSE) for secondary market trading.
Who Should Invest and Why SGBs Are a Secure Gold Investment
SGBs are ideal for:
- Long-term investors looking for a safe gold investment with additional returns.
- Tax-conscious individuals seeking a tax-free investment option at maturity.
- Gold investors preferring digital ownership without storage and security risks.
- Portfolio diversifiers who want to hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
However, those requiring short-term liquidity may find SGBs restrictive due to the 8-year tenure and 5-year lock-in for premature redemption.
Final Recommendations & Where to Check the Latest SGB Updates
To stay updated on the upcoming Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25, investors should:
- Visit the RBI official website for release dates and notifications.
- Check stock exchanges (NSE, BSE) for real-time trading prices.
- Follow financial news portals like Moneycontrol, Economic Times, and Business Standard for gold price forecasts and RBI updates.
Investing in SGBs 2024-25 can be a smart move for those looking to accumulate gold in a secure, cost-effective, and rewarding manner. Ensure you assess your investment horizon and financial goals before making a decision.
FAQ
What is the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme?
The Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) Scheme is a government-backed investment in gold that offers interest income and capital appreciation benefits.
When will the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2024-25 be released?
The RBI announces the SGB issue dates in tranches throughout the financial year. Stay updated on the RBI website or leading financial portals.
How is the interest rate on SGBs determined?
The interest rate on SGBs is fixed at 2.5% per annum, paid semi-annually, in addition to potential gains based on gold price fluctuations.
What are the tax benefits of investing in SGBs?
Capital gains on maturity are tax-free, and the 2.5% interest is taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab.
Where can I buy Sovereign Gold Bonds?
SGBs can be purchased through banks, post offices, RBI's website, stock exchanges (NSE/BSE), and online banking platforms.
What is the minimum and maximum investment in SGBs?
The minimum investment is 1 gram of gold, while the maximum limit is 4 kg for individuals and 20 kg for trusts per financial year.
Can I sell Sovereign Gold Bonds before maturity?
Yes, SGBs have an 8-year tenure with an early redemption option after 5 years. They can also be sold on stock exchanges before maturity.
How can I check the latest Sovereign Gold Bond prices?
You can check real-time SGB prices on RBI’s official website, stock exchanges (NSE/BSE), and financial news portals.
Is SGB a better investment than physical gold?
Yes, SGBs offer interest income, are free from making charges, have no storage issues, and provide tax-free capital gains at maturity.
How to stay updated on SGB notifications?
Follow RBI’s website, leading financial news sites, and government notifications to get real-time updates on upcoming SGB issues.
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