Global Gold ETF Assets Reach New All-Time High in January 2026
Gold | 2026-02-09 09:16:55
All regions recorded inflows during the month, with North America and Asia leading demand.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Global investors significantly increased allocations to physically backed gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) at the start of the year, driving record inflows and assets.
In January, gold ETFs attracted US$19 billion in net inflows, the strongest monthly level on record. Supported by a 14% rally in gold prices, global gold ETF assets under management surged to a new all-time high of US$669 billion, up 20% month-on-month. Total global holdings rose by 120 tonnes to a record 4,145 tonnes.
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All regions recorded inflows during the month, with North America and Asia leading demand. North America added US$7 billion in January, marking its second-highest monthly inflow on record and extending its streak to eight consecutive months of inflows. Asia posted its strongest month ever, contributing US$10 billion and accounting for 51% of global net inflows, led by China and India.
European gold ETFs also saw a third straight month of inflows, adding US$2 billion amid escalating geopolitical and trade tensions. Despite late-month price volatility and uncertainty around US monetary policy, investor interest remained resilient. Ongoing geopolitical risks, expectations of future rate cuts, and demand for defensive assets continued to underpin strong gold ETF inflows globally.
POLL
What was the primary driver behind the record inflows into gold ETFs in January?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much did gold ETFs attract in January?
Gold ETFs recorded net inflows of US$19 billion, the highest monthly level on record.
- What drove the surge in gold ETF investments?
Rising gold prices, geopolitical risks, expectations of future rate cuts, and demand for defensive assets supported strong investor inflows.
- Which regions led gold ETF demand?
Asia led with US$10 billion in inflows, followed by North America with US$7 billion. Europe also recorded inflows for the third straight month.
