World Gold Council: Central Bank Gold Demand Remains Strong Through 2026

Central bank net gold purchases reached about 244 tonnes in the first quarter of 2026, above the five-year average, and the World Gold Council expects full-year 2026 buying of 750 to 850 tonnes, one of the five strongest years for central bank gold demand since 1971.

The Council says this sustained demand, against a tense geoeconomic backdrop that includes the war between Iran, the US, and Israel, reflects central banks' strategic view of gold as a store of value in uncertain times. New buyers such as Guatemala, Indonesia, and Malaysia have joined recent purchasers. The demand persists while spot gold traded near $4,040 an ounce on Friday, 24 July 2026.