In the first half of 2025, gold prices soared 26% to record highs, yet investors continued to buy in, especially through ETFs. The World Gold Council’s Q2 Gold Demand Trends report shows total global investment demand jumped 78% year-on-year, marking the strongest half-year since 2020. ETF inflows in Australia and worldwide offset earlier 2024 outflows, driven by fears of economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, and currency debasement. Central banks continued large-scale purchases, adding 166 tonnes in Q2, while bar and coin buying rose 11%, led by Chinese and Indian investors. Jewellery demand, however, fell sharply. Analysts say ongoing market volatility and unpredictable macroeconomic conditions could keep gold prices supported in the second half of 2025.

Gold Is Up 41% From a Year Ago. The Fed Can’t Stop It
Gold is trading at $4,648/oz — up 41% from a year ago, down 14% from January’s record. Both numbers are true. The one that matters is the 41%. It held through a war, three hawkish Fed holds, and the most fractured FOMC vote since 1992. Here’s why that gap between the record and today’s price is a floor, not a warning.




