Central banks buying up gold to diversify away from US dollar
The demand for gold has renewed worldwide with the price for the precious metal climbing to nearly $1300 per ounce for the first time in 15 months. The rally has been led by the world's central banks loading up on gold to diversify from the US dollar.
READ MORE: Moscow & Shanghai seek to dominate gold trade
Russia has been the most active buyer in the bullion market. The country has purchased 46 tons of the yellow metal this year, while China comes second with 35 tons.
Tomorrow we release our #GoldDemandTrends Q1 2016 report, the leading industry resource for gold demand data. pic.twitter.com/2v2g6MaSTD
— World Gold Council (@GOLDCOUNCIL) May 11, 2016
The demand by the central banks increased 28 percent from January through March compared to the same period a year ago, Capital Economics' commodities economist Simona Gambarini told Business Insider.
READ MORE: 'El Chapo' Guzman's cartel smelted gold to sneak drug profits out of US
The major driver for gold purchasing by central banks is seen by the economists as trend towards diversification away from the US dollar, with some economies seeking protection against currency volatility.
Gold holding above support at $1257. Investment demand being off-set by weaker physical demand. pic.twitter.com/r1vsT4ty45
— #SaxoStrats (@SaxoStrats) May 10, 2016
Gold prices have also been driven by increased consumer demand in India and the US. India, one of the world's largest gold consumers, returned to the market after a strike by the country's jewelers association. Demand for bullion in the US has climbed the most in 30 years.
READ MORE: Osama bin Laden bet on gold
Optimistic figures seen in the first quarter along with a steady increase in demand support the positive forecasts on prices, according to Capital Economics.
