World Gold Council: Central Bank Gold Purchases Plunge 80% in January, but New Players Entering Hint at Larger Trend

Odaily News According to the latest data from the World Gold Council, central bank gold purchases in January were less than 20% of the average monthly demand in 2025. However, the market welcomed new sovereign players, indicating that the demand base for gold reserve accumulation is expanding.

"Compared to the previous 12-month average of 27 tonnes per month, central bank gold buying momentum slowed at the start of the year," wrote Marissa Salim, Senior Research Manager, Asia Pacific at the World Gold Council (WGC), in her latest monthly report. "Total net purchases in January were 5 tonnes. Gold price volatility and holiday factors may have caused some central banks to pause, but geopolitical tensions, showing little sign of abating, are likely to drive gold purchases through 2026 and beyond."