Global Reserve Shift: Central Banks Fuel Record Gold Demand
Central banks worldwide have been purchasing gold at a record pace, driving a sustained breakout in gold prices. According to the World Gold Council, over 1,000 tonnes of net purchases were made by central banks in 2025 alone.
This represents the third consecutive year of elevated demand from central banks, with leading buyers including the People's Bank of China and the Reserve Bank of India. These institutions are seeking to diversify away from the U.S. dollar and reduce their reliance on Western financial systems.
The gold price broke through the $2,800 per ounce resistance level in early 2026, reaching an all-time high of $2,850 before consolidating. This breakout is supported by robust central bank buying, rising retail investment through ETFs, and a weaker U.S. dollar index.