World Gold Council: Central banks around the world net purchased 19 tons of gold in February, with China increasing its gold holdings for the 16th consecutive month

The World Gold Council released the February central bank gold purchase report this week, showing that central banks net bought 19 tons of gold in February 2026. Although this is still below the monthly average of 26 tons reported for 2025, it represents an increase compared to the net purchase of 5 tons in January 2026.

The World Gold Council stated that the situation in February seems to indicate a rebound in central bank gold purchases after a quiet January, highlighting the recognition and commitment of central banks to gold as a reserve asset. Additionally, the report shows that some central banks have maintained a record of continuous net gold purchases, accumulating 44 tons from November 2024 to February 2026, with the Czech Republic reporting net purchases for the 36th consecutive month. China has increased its gold holdings for the 16th consecutive month.

Goldman Sachs' research report at the end of March pointed out that supported by the ongoing gold purchases by central banks and the expectation that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates twice this year, the medium-term outlook for gold remains solid, with gold prices expected to rise to $5,400 per ounce by the end of the year. UBS also projected at the end of March that the target price for gold in early 2027 will be $5,900 per ounce.