Global Central Banks Hoard Record Amount of Gold Amid Market Volatility

Central banks worldwide are stockpiling gold at an unprecedented rate, accumulating 36,664.5 tonnes worth around $4.78 trillion, a record high that represents 16.7% of all gold mined in human history.

The largest holder is the United States with 8,133 tonnes, accounting for 22.2% of central bank reserves. Poland has been particularly aggressive, purchasing 102 tonnes in 2025 and another 63.6 tonnes in the first months of 2026, a haul valued at roughly $21.6 billion.

A lead data analyst at BestBrokers described the trend as 'a structural shift' where central banks continue buying even when prices hit all-time highs, adding that 'in recent years, they have steadily increased their gold reserves.'