Central Banks Boost Gold Reserves as Q2 Purchases Jump 62%
The latest Global Gold Demand Trends Report from the World Gold Council reveals a sharp acceleration in official sector gold buying during the second quarter of 2026. Central banks and other official institutions collectively added a net 289 tonnes to their reserves, representing a substantial 62% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge indicates a broad-based resurgence in gold acquisition activities among numerous national banks.
Full First-Half Demand Moderates Slightly from Recent Highs
Despite the strong Q2 performance, overall central bank gold demand for the first half of 2026 came in slightly below the elevated levels seen in recent years, partly due to softer activity in the first quarter. This suggests potential quarterly variability in official purchasing patterns, without disrupting the underlying long-term accumulation trend.
Forward Outlook: 45% of Central Banks Plan to Increase Holdings
The appetite for gold appears poised to continue. The Council's separate Central Bank Gold Reserves Survey provides a forward-looking perspective: a significant 45% of the responding central banks indicated they expect to increase their gold reserves over the next 12 months.
This high level of intended buying underscores a key conclusion: amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties, gold maintains its fundamental role as a strategic asset for central banks. It is consistently valued for enhancing the security and diversification of national reserves, with its long-term appeal seemingly reinforced by the current environment.