Central banks set records: 45% of regulators plan massive gold purchases
Global financial regulators are demonstrating an unprecedented appetite for gold. According to a fresh survey by the World Gold Council, which involved 74 central banks, 45% of them stated their intention to increase their gold reserves over the next 12 months. This is the highest figure ever recorded, signaling the formation of a sustained long-term trend rather than a temporary spike.
Record demand from developing economies
The share of central banks planning to replenish reserves has more than doubled since 2020. The current figure of 45% marks the third consecutive annual increase. It is particularly telling that developing economies are leading this movement: 53% of regulators from this group intend to buy gold in 2026, compared to 48% last year. This clearly reflects their desire to qualitatively diversify reserves and reduce dependence on traditional currency assets, such as the US dollar.
Overall optimism and growth expectations
Positive sentiment is sweeping the market far beyond local plans. In total, 89% of central banks expect a near-term increase in global gold reserves over the next 12 months. This forecast is the second-highest result in the history of such surveys. The combination of record plans and near-universal growth expectations paints a picture of powerful bullish sentiment. Notably, regulators view current price levels as an excellent opportunity for advantageous entry, rather than a reason for excessive caution.
As an analyst, I see this as confirmation of a fundamental shift: gold is once again becoming a cornerstone of global financial stability, and this trend will only intensify, providing long-term support for the precious metal's prices.