More Central Banks Than Ever Plan to Increase Gold Reserves This Year
A record number of central banks globally intend to boost gold reserves this year, signaling sustained demand that has underpinned bullion's rally despite recent price pullbacks.
A record number of central banks worldwide expect to increase their gold reserves this year, according to a survey, underscoring that one of the key drivers behind bullion's historic rally remains intact despite the metal's pullback in 2026.
The finding highlights a structural shift in official-sector gold demand. Central banks, particularly in emerging markets, have been diversifying away from dollar-denominated assets following sanctions on Russia and geopolitical uncertainty. Gold purchases by central banks reached a multi-decade high in recent years, and the latest survey suggests this trend is accelerating. For rates traders, sustained central-bank gold buying implies a continued undercurrent of de-dollarization, which can influence long-term yield dynamics and currency reserve composition. Traders can track gold's price reaction to such news on NowPrice's live rates dashboard.
Looking ahead, market participants will watch for actual purchase data from the World Gold Council and individual central bank disclosures. The next key event is the release of second-quarter gold demand trends, which will confirm whether survey intentions translate into physical buying. Any slowdown in official purchases could remove a significant support for gold prices, while continued accumulation may keep bullion elevated even as real rates rise.