Gold continues to strengthen its position as a strategic reserve asset for central banks worldwide, according to the latest Central Bank Gold Reserves Survey 2026.
The survey highlights a significant rise in gold accumulation over the past four years, with central banks collectively adding an average of 1,000 tonnes annually—double the average pace recorded during the previous decade. The trend reflects growing concerns around geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and the need for greater resilience within reserve portfolios.
Confidence in gold remains strong, with 89% of surveyed central banks expecting global gold reserves to increase over the next 12 months. Meanwhile, 45% indicated plans to expand their own gold holdings, marking the highest level of purchase intent recorded in the survey's history.
Respondents cited gold's performance during periods of crisis, its role as a portfolio diversifier, and its ability to hedge against inflation and geopolitical risks as key reasons for maintaining or increasing allocations.
The survey also points to a changing outlook for global reserve composition. Nearly three-quarters of participants expect the share of US dollar-denominated reserves to decline over the next five years, while gold's share is projected to rise.
To support additional purchases, central banks are primarily relying on domestic gold acquisition programmes and the reallocation of funds from other reserve assets. At the same time, reserve managers are increasingly diversifying storage arrangements, with greater emphasis on domestic vaulting and multiple storage locations.
The findings underscore gold's enduring relevance in reserve management, as central banks continue to prioritise stability, diversification and long-term financial security in an evolving global landscape.
