“The next 10-15 days could prove crucial in shaping the geopolitical backdrop this year, as US-Iran tensions continue to escalate with little indication of diplomatic resolution in sight.”
The report concluded that a broadening demand base could emerge as a defining theme in 2026, with renewed participation from Malaysia and a planned return to gold-related investments by the Bank of Korea. Against a backdrop of intensifying U.S.-Iran tensions and wider geopolitical fragmentation, sustained accumulation since 2022 underscores how central banks are positioning reserves amid an evolving global order.
FAQ 🧭 Why did central bank gold buying slow in January?Volatile prices and seasonal factors tempered purchases despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. How are U.S.-Iran tensions influencing gold demand? Escalating friction is reinforcing gold’s appeal as a strategic reserve asset for central banks. Which regions are leading official gold accumulation? Central and East Asia, along with select Eastern European institutions, drove most net purchases. What does sustained central bank accumulation mean for investors? Persistent official-sector demand signals structural support for gold prices over the medium term.
