Central banks around the world significantly increased their gold holdings in the third quarter

(1) In the third quarter of 2026, global central banks purchased 321 tons of gold, marking the largest single-quarter purchase since the fourth quarter of 2024 and the fifth-largest in history. (2) This purchase volume represents an 8% increase compared to the 296 tons bought in the second quarter of 2026, and a 453% increase over the first quarter of 2026. (3) In comparison, the five-year quarterly average stands at 227 tons. (4) China and Poland led demand in the third quarter, increasing their holdings by 63 tons and 40 tons respectively. (5) Since the beginning of the year, global central banks have accumulated gold purchases totaling 675 tons, a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2025. (6) Central banks are actively buying gold on dips.