Global Gold ETF Holdings Hit Record 4,189 Tonnes as August Inflows Reach $18 Billion

Global gold-backed exchange-traded funds attracted $18 billion in August, the second-highest monthly inflow on record, lifting collective holdings by 121 tonnes to an all-time high of 4,189 tonnes.

By Paul Ploumis
Published September 10, 2026

MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): Global investor demand for gold strengthened sharply in August, pushing holdings in gold-backed exchange-traded funds to a record high. Concerns surrounding currencies, government finances and the U.S. dollar supported demand for the precious metal.

According to the World Gold Council (WGC), global gold-backed ETFs attracted $18 billion during the month, marking the second-highest monthly inflow on record. Funds listed in North America and Europe accounted for most of the buying.

Gold ETF Holdings Reach Record 4,189 Tonnes

Higher gold prices and fresh investment lifted total ETF assets under management by 16% month-on-month to $615 billion.

Collective gold holdings increased by 121 tonnes during August to a record 4,189 tonnes, the WGC said.

Europe and North America Lead August Inflows

North American-listed funds recorded $7.7 billion of inflows, their third-highest monthly total on record.

European-listed funds performed even more strongly, attracting a record $7.9 billion during August. The UK accounted for $4.4 billion of the regional total, while France contributed $1.5 billion.

Asian Gold ETFs Add $2 Billion

Asian-listed ETFs attracted another $2 billion, their strongest monthly performance since February.

China led regional demand, while India and Japan also reported positive flows.

Funds listed in other regions recorded a smaller $234 million inflow during the month, with Australia emerging as the primary contributor.

Year-to-Date Inflows Reach $29 Billion

Global gold ETF inflows reached $29 billion during the year to date, while collective holdings increased by 160 tonnes, according to the WGC report.