GFN - LONDON: The World Gold Council reported that central banks added a net 244 tons of gold during the first quarter of 2026, the fastest accumulation pace in more than a year despite heightened price volatility across global precious-metals markets.
The World Gold Council said net purchases rose from 208 tons in the previous quarter, with buying activity concentrated in March as prices declined sharply from record highs reached earlier in the year, according to its Gold Demand Trends report (via BBG). Poland, Uzbekistan, and China led the accumulation, taking advantage of softer prices following a sustained rally that pushed gold to nearly $5,600 per ounce on January 29.
“The price correction in March created a window for several official institutions to accelerate planned reserve additions,” the council said.
Selling activity also increased during the quarter, with Turkey, Russia, and Azerbaijan among those shedding an estimated 115 tons combined. The report attributed the disposals to country-specific factors, including Turkey’s currency management pressures, Russia’s budget financing requirements, and Azerbaijan’s portfolio rebalancing constraints.
Gold prices fell roughly 12% across March, marking the steepest monthly decline since 2008 and prompting renewed accumulation by reserve managers across emerging markets. The council added that the broader buying base has widened since 2024, with a growing number of smaller central banks contributing to net demand alongside traditional large-scale buyers.
SILVER TO $350-$500? MICHAEL OLIVER’S NOT BULLISH ENOUGH!
INVESTMENT DEMAND WILL DRIVE SILVER TO 4 FIGURES & INTO A MANIA!!
