A survey by the World Gold Council of 74 central banks found that 45% plan to buy gold within the next 12 months, the highest level ever recorded. This proportion has more than doubled since 2020 and marks the third consecutive year of increase. Emerging market and developing economy central banks are leading the trend, with about 53% of them intending to boost their gold reserves, up from 48% last year. Overall, 89% of central banks expect global gold reserves to rise over the coming year, the second-highest level in history, as they are buying while prices are low.