Dutch Central Bank Transfers 86 Tonnes of Gold to London Amid Rising Tensions

The Dutch central bank (DNB) has made significant moves to prepare for potential crises by transferring 86 tonnes of gold from North America to London. The transfer, which took place over six months, represents 27.5% of the DNB's previously held gold in New York and Ottawa.

In a statement, the DNB explained that it is strengthening its crisis preparedness in view of increasing geopolitical unrest. The bank emphasized that gold stored at the Bank of England (BoE) is considered more readily tradable in a stress scenario.

DNB President Olaf Sleijpen stated that the central bank aims to strengthen its resilience and preparedness, although it does not expect to use its reserves. Analyst Carsten Menke from Julius Baer noted that the move reflects a growing focus among central banks on resilience, operational readiness, and diversification of reserve holdings.

The transfer involved selling 59 tonnes of gold in New York and buying equivalent amounts meeting BoE standards in London. Additionally, 27 tonnes of gold were physically moved from North America to the Netherlands, while an equal amount meeting BoE standards was transferred from a Dutch vault to London.