19:30 30 July 2026
Gold Demand Holds Firm
Global gold demand remained strong during a turbulent first half of 2026, rising 2% year-on-year to 2,522 tonnes, according to the World Gold Council. Investor interest persisted even as the price of gold climbed to a record USD 5,501 per ounce in January before falling nearly 27% to around USD 3,994 by the end of June. Demand for physical bars and coins increased by approximately 21% to 784 tonnes, while more volatile ETF flows contributed to a 24% decline in overall investment demand. Higher US bond yields, a stronger dollar and expectations that interest rates will remain elevated placed pressure on prices. Nevertheless, central bank purchases continue to provide long-term support. Nearly 90% of central banks surveyed expect global gold reserves to increase over the next 12 months, while 45% plan to expand their own holdings.
