Central banks are preparing a record gold rush: 45% of regulators plan large-scale purchases
Global financial regulators are showing unprecedented optimism towards gold. According to a fresh survey by the World Gold Council, which included 74 central banks, 45% of them plan to increase their gold reserves in the next 12 months. This figure is the highest in the history of observations, signaling the formation of a sustained long-term trend rather than a temporary spike in interest.
The share of central banks intending to replenish their holdings of the precious metal has more than doubled compared to 2020. The current level of 45% marks the third consecutive annual increase. Analysts emphasize that regulators prefer to actively buy gold during price dips, viewing them as strategic entry opportunities.
Record Demand from Emerging Markets
Unsurprisingly, emerging economies are leading this large-scale movement. Among them, the share of plans to increase reserves rose from 48% last year to approximately 53% this year. This shift in demand towards developing countries reflects their desire to qualitatively diversify reserves and significantly reduce dependence on traditional currency assets, such as the US dollar.
| Regulator Group | Purchase Plans Last Year | Purchase Plans This Year |
| Emerging Markets | 48% | ~53% |
General Expectations for Global Reserves
Positive sentiment extends far beyond local plans across the market. In total, 89% of central banks expect global gold reserves to grow soon in the next 12 months. This forecast is the second-highest result in the history of such surveys, trailing only the peak figure of 2025.
Notably, none of the surveyed regulators expect a decline in reserves. The combination of record plans and near-universal growth expectations paints a picture of powerful bullish sentiment. Central banks clearly view current price levels as an excellent opportunity for advantageous entry, rather than a reason for excessive caution.
Expert Opinion: The current dynamics are not merely a reaction to geopolitical instability. We are witnessing a fundamental restructuring of the global reserve system. Central banks in developing countries, seeking financial independence, will continue to increase their gold share, which in turn creates powerful structural demand and supports prices in the long term. For investors, this is a signal: gold remains a key safe-haven asset in the era of de-dollarization.