Central Banks Accelerate Gold Repatriation as Buying Intent Hits Record

The World Gold Council’s latest 2026 survey shows a record 45% of central banks plan to increase their own gold holdings over the next 12 months, with 89% expecting global reserves to rise. This builds on four straight years of average annual purchases near 1,000 tonnes, even after gold’s retreat from record highs above $5,600. Institutions are also diversifying storage away from the Bank of England and New York Fed, boosting domestic vaults amid geopolitical risks, while 74% anticipate a declining role for the U.S. dollar in reserves over five years.