In September 2026, the Central Bank of Uzbekistan acquired 7 tonnes of gold. According to the World Gold Council, global central banks increased their precious metal reserves by 61 tonnes in the same month—the highest monthly figure since the beginning of the year. Poland became the largest buyer, purchasing 25 tonnes, followed by China with 23 tonnes. Uzbekistan took third place. Kazakhstan acquired 5 tonnes, Jordan 4 tonnes, the Czech Republic 2 tonnes, and Bolivia 1 tonne. Russia, on the contrary, reduced its gold reserves by 6 tonnes.
In total, from January to September 2026, central banks made net purchases of 228 tonnes of gold, which is 7% less than the figure for the same period last year. At the same time, throughout the entire third quarter, official institutions purchased 321 tonnes of metal—42% more than a year earlier. Combined purchases over nine months reached 675 tonnes, rising by 6% year-on-year.
Global demand for gold in the third quarter stood at 1,369 tonnes, down 1% year-on-year. However, in monetary terms, the figure grew by 22% to reach $188 billion. The average price per troy ounce during the quarter was $4,262. According to the World Gold Council, central banks continue to increase their precious metal reserves to diversify international reserves and mitigate financial risks.