Gold ETF Holdings Hit Record 4,256 Tonnes as Q3 Inflows Reach $31 Billion

Global physically backed gold ETFs attracted approximately $10 billion in September, lifting third-quarter inflows to a record $31 billion as total gold holdings reached an all-time high, according to the World Gold Council.

By Paul Ploumis
Published October 8, 2026

Gold ETF Holdings Reach Record Despite Lower Prices

MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): Global physically backed gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) attracted approximately $10 billion in net inflows during September 2026, according to the World Gold Council (WGC). Third-quarter net investment reached a record $31 billion.

Strong buying increased global ETF gold holdings by 67 tonnes to a record 4,256 tonnes. However, total assets under management fell 7% month-on-month to $574 billion as gold prices declined during the month.

Europe and North America accounted for most of the September inflows. European-listed funds received $3.6 billion, taking their third-quarter inflows to a record $14 billion.

UK-listed ETFs led the European region with $2.2 billion in September and $7.5 billion for the quarter. UK-listed funds have now attracted $9.5 billion in net inflows this year, surpassing Chinese-listed funds.

North America Adds $4 Billion as Asian Inflows Continue

North American funds attracted $4 billion during September, with U.S.-listed funds contributing $3.8 billion.

Asian ETFs added another $2.3 billion, marking their third consecutive month of inflows. China was the region's largest contributor, while India, Japan, South Korea and Singapore also recorded inflows during the month.

Funds listed in other regions contributed $104 million in September, bringing third-quarter inflows to a record $476 million.