Published: Thu 30 Apr 2026, 11:59 AM
Global gold demand reached 1,231 tonnes (t) in the first quarter of 2026, a 2 percent increase year-on-year. While volumes increased modestly, the value of demand surged to a record $193 billion, up 74 percent year-on-year.
The World Gold Council’s Q1 2026 Gold Demand Trends report reveals that, around the world, retail investors were drawn to gold’s price momentum and safe-haven appeal, driving bar and coin demand up 42 percent year-on-year to 474t.
Central banks also continued to support overall demand, adding 244 tonnes to global reserves in the first quarter.
Gold demand in China surges to record high
Gold demand in China surged 67 percent year-on-year to a record 207t, considerably higher than the previous quarterly record of 155t in Q2 2013. Other Eastern markets, including India, South Korea and Japan, also saw an increase in bar and coin buying, contributing to the ongoing structural shift in gold demand.
Bar and coin demand was also supported by strong growth in the U.S. and Europe, up 14 percent and 50 percent, respectively.
The report also reveals that physically-backed gold ETF demand remained positive in Q1. Holdings increased by 62t, largely supported by continued strength across Asian-listed funds, which added 84t over the quarter. Sizeable outflows in March, mostly from U.S.-listed funds, tempered what had been a very strong start to the year.
“Gold’s volatility has markedly increased in 2026, with prices peaking above $5,400/oz in January before a significant but contained correction. The combination of price momentum and heightened geopolitical risk propelled investment demand, most notably in Asia, as investors sought security in physical gold. Alongside this, continued central bank buying offset tactical selling,” said Louise Street, Senior Markets Analyst from the World Gold Council.
Jewelry demand dips on higher prices
In contrast, jewelry demand declined sharply, falling 23 percent year-on-year to 300t in reaction to the higher prices seen throughout the quarter. Demand weakened across all major markets, with notable declines in China, India and the Middle East.
However, in value terms, jewelry demand increased, indicating continued consumer willingness to spend on gold despite record prices. Market analysis suggests that some jewelry consumption has moved into bar and coin demand, particularly in markets like China and India, where jewelry can act as a proxy investment.
“Looking ahead, the geopolitical risk premium should continue to support investment demand, though higher-for-longer interest rates may present headwinds, especially in Western markets. Jewelry spending is expected to remain resilient even as high prices weigh on volumes. On the supply side, mine production is expected to grow modestly, although potential energy shortages could temper that outlook,” added Street.
Central bank buying surpasses five-year average despite an uptick in selling
Central banks also continued to support overall demand. Purchases exceeded both the previous quarter and the five-year average despite an uptick in selling by a small number of official sector institutions, including the Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation and the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Market activity throughout the quarter underscored gold’s unique role as an indispensable reserve asset, accessible during times of extreme market turbulence.
Total gold supply increased by 2 percent year-on-year to 1,231t. Mine production reached a new first-quarter record, while recycling increased modestly by 5 percent despite elevated prices, suggesting a relatively muted supply response and tighter overall market conditions.
