Let's peek at the gold reserves (known and estimated) of the top 10 nations that hold physical gold.
But first, let's determine what a tonne (or ton if you're in the U.S.) is. A tonne weighs roughly 2,240 pounds (2,000 tons in U.S.).
One tonne = 321,507 troy ounces of gold.
That means at today's prices (near all-time highs), 1 tonne is approximately $69.3 million USD/€63.6 million Euros.
1. United States: 8,133.5 Tonnes
The United States tops the list with a staggering 8,133.5 tonnes of gold. A significant chunk of these reserves is housed in the legendary Fort Knox, a facility so synonymous with impenetrable security that its name is often invoked to denote ultimate safekeeping.
2. Germany: 3,362.4 Tonnes
Germany comes in second, boasting 3,362.4 tonnes of gold. An interesting move by Germany to enhance public trust was the completion of a massive repatriation operation in 2017, where a large portion of its gold was moved back to domestic vaults from foreign locations.
3. Italy: 2,451.8 Tonnes
With 2,451.8 tonnes, Italy demonstrates the importance of gold in symbolizing economic stability. Despite significant economic headwinds, Italy has steadfastly held onto its reserves, underscoring gold's role in maintaining financial confidence.
4. France: 2,436.1 Tonnes
France's reserves stand at 2,436.1 tonnes. France's historical commitment to the Gold Standard is reflected in its substantial gold reserves, a legacy of its past monetary policies to ensure economic stability.
5. Russia: 2,298.5 Tonnes
Russia, holding 2,298.5 tonnes, has been on a gold-buying spree, significantly increasing its reserves. This strategy is part of a broader move to reduce the economy's dependence on the U.S. dollar and shield it from external financial pressures.
6. China: 1,948.3 Tonnes
China's official gold reserves are reported at 1,948.3 tonnes. The actual size of China's gold stash is a closely guarded secret, fueling speculation about the true extent of its reserves and its strategic implications for the global economy.
7. Switzerland: 1,040 Tonnes
With 1,040 tonnes, Switzerland is not just a gold holder but also a pivotal player in the global gold market, thanks to its leading role in gold refining and trading. The country's expertise in processing and handling gold cements its position as a key node in the world's gold supply chain.
8. Japan: 845.9 Tonnes
Japan's gold reserves amount to 845.9 tonnes, reflecting its conservative approach to managing its assets. Japan's stable gold reserves indicate its broader financial strategy, prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gains.
9. India: 754.1 Tonnes
India's official reserves are recorded at 754.1 tonnes. However, the cultural affinity for gold in India means that households' private holdings of gold significantly exceed the central bank's reserves, playing a central role in the nation's social and economic fabric.
10. Netherlands: 612.5 Tonnes
The Netherlands closes the top ten with 612.5 tonnes. The Dutch central bank's view of gold as a bastion of security in times of crisis highlights the enduring appeal of gold as a haven, a sentiment echoed by many central banks worldwide.
