According to a report from the World Gold Council, demand for gold soared in the first quarter due to a rise in the price of the yellow metal.
The report say Demand for gold increased by 74% in volume to $193 billion in the first quarter of 2026.
By sector, demand for gold bars and coins rose 42% to 474 tonnes, the second-largest quarterly increase of all time. In contrast, gold purchases by central banks reached 244 tons in the first quarter. Purchases of gold for technological purposes increased by 1% to 82 tons in the same period. However, demand for gold for jewelry purposes fell as the composition of demand favored investment over manufacturing.
According to According to the World Gold Council, the “geopolitical risk premium that has helped gold prices rise in recent years will continue and possibly increase as the year progresses.”
The World Gold Council says demand for the yellow metal will continue to come from both individual and institutional investors.
“As a result, the demand for gold is increasing [exchange-trade funds] ETFs and [over-the-counter market] OTC could be positive, but lower than in 2025. Demand for bars and coins, on the other hand, is likely to play a greater role in 2026 as high prices, a lack of viable alternative investments in some markets, fears of inflation and increased uncertainty continue to attract savers and speculators alike…
…Central bank purchases are expected to be solid at levels close to 2025. Demand is showing good traction despite price volatility and persistent geo-economic risks could provide additional upside potential. However, the periodic mobilization of gold reserves in the event of further supply shocks cannot be ruled out.”
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