Gold continues to be a cornerstone of global economies, transcending its role as mere jewelry to symbolize wealth and power across cultures and centuries. Despite the rise of cryptocurrencies and digital payment systems, gold maintains its allure as a secure and stable asset. The World Gold Council recently released data highlighting the countries with the largest gold reserves as of the second quarter of 2025, providing insights into the dynamics of gold ownership around the world.
The United States stands out at the forefront, holding a consistently robust gold reserve of 8,133.46 tonnes. This figure has remained unchanged since the first quarter of 2025, continuing a trend that has seen the country average 8,134.78 tonnes over the past 25 years. Notably, the peak reserve occurred in the third quarter of 2001, reaching 8,149.05 tonnes. Despite fluctuations over the decades, the U.S. maintains a substantial lead over other nations in official gold holdings.
Germany ranks second globally, though its gold reserves have dipped slightly to 3,350.25 tonnes in the second quarter of 2025 from 3,351.28 tonnes in the first quarter. Historically, Germany’s reserves have averaged 3,398.28 tonnes since 2000, peaking at 3,468.60 tonnes in Q2 2000. This recent decrease marks the lowest level recorded in 25 years, yet Germany remains firmly in the silver medal position behind the U.S.
Italy demonstrates remarkable stability in its gold reserves, which have held steady at 2,451.84 tonnes since early 2020. From 2000 to 2025, this figure has not fluctuated, reflecting an unwavering commitment to maintaining these reserves. Similarly, France’s gold reserves, standing at 2,437 tonnes in the second quarter of 2025, have shown resilience, stabilizing after previously exceeding 3,000 tonnes in 2002 and then falling to 2,435.38 tonnes in 2012.
Russia’s gold reserves, reported at 2,329.63 tonnes, also have not changed since the first quarter of 2025. The country’s historical averages indicate significant growth since the early 2000s, with reserves peaking at 2,335.85 tonnes in Q2 2024.
China, coming in sixth place with approximately 2,279.6 tonnes, continues to build its gold reserves, albeit as a small fraction of its extensive foreign reserves. The People’s Bank of China has been methodical in its accumulation strategy, regularly announcing increases in its holdings to bolster financial security.
Switzerland, a notable financial hub, possesses about 1,040 tonnes of gold, securing its status as the seventh-largest holder despite its relatively small geographical size. The Swiss National Bank manages these reserves, underlining the country’s reputation for stability and neutrality.
Finally, India has recently achieved an all-time high in its gold reserves, which increased to 880 tonnes in the second quarter of 2025, up from 879.60 tonnes in the first quarter. Over the past 25 years, India’s average gold reserves have been 531 tonnes, with a significant low of 357.75 tonnes recorded in Q2 2001. This upward trajectory illustrates India’s growing recognition of gold as a critical asset.
As these figures reveal, gold remains an integral part of national reserves, serving as a bedrock of economic stability and wealth in an increasingly digital financial landscape.
