WGC Highlights Shift in Central Bank Gold Storage Strategies
Gold | 2026-09-16 07:16:31
The shift does not necessarily indicate that central banks intend to sell their gold reserves, WGC noted.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Central banks are increasingly treating gold storage as an active part of reserve management, as indicated by recent moves by several institutions, said the World Gold Council (WGC).
The trend was highlighted by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), which transferred about 86 tonnes of gold between North America, the Netherlands and London during March-August this year. The move increased London’s share of Dutch gold reserves to 32.1%, while domestic holdings accounted for 30.8%.
According to DNB, the move was mainly intended to improve the liquidity and tradability of its reserves. Furthermore, it expects that the transfer would strengthen its ability to respond during periods of crisis.
Several countries have implemented major changes in their official gold storage and holding patterns. For instance, Germany, Venezuela, Austria, the Netherlands, Poland, Serbia and India have all adjusted the location of portions of their reserves at different times. Recent data from the WGC’s 2026 Central Bank Gold Reserves Survey indicates that diversification is becoming increasingly important.
The Bank of England remains the most commonly cited storage location. The future expansion of bullion infrastructure by Singapore and Hong Kong may provide additional options to global central banks for geographically diversified storage.
The shift does not necessarily indicate that central banks intend to sell their gold reserves, WGC noted.
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What is a key reason central banks are diversifying gold storage locations?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are central banks changing the locations of their gold reserves?
The WGC says central banks are increasingly considering gold storage as part of reserve management. Factors such as liquidity, tradability, crisis preparedness and geographic diversification can influence decisions about where bullion is stored.
- How much gold did the Netherlands transfer during March-August 2026?
De Nederlandsche Bank transferred approximately 86 tonnes of gold between North America, the Netherlands and London. Following the move, London accounted for 32.1% of Dutch gold reserves, while 30.8% was held domestically.
- Which location remains the most commonly cited storage center for central bank gold?
The Bank of England remains the most commonly cited storage location for central bank gold. New bullion infrastructure being developed in Singapore and Hong Kong could provide additional options for geographically diversified storage.