100 Days In: Trump’s ‘Strategic Uncertainty’ on Tariffs Leaves Markets Guessing

Russian banks’ gold reserves plunged 46.4% in 2024, hitting their lowest level since July 2022 at 38.1 metric tons ($3.4 billion). This dichotomy reflects the country’s complex economic challenges: high inflation at 9.5%, record interest rates at 21%, and ongoing sanctions impact. Russian citizens, faced with a weakening ruble and limited international investment options due to sanctions, increased their gold purchases by 75.6 metric tons – up 62% from pre-war levels. Meanwhile, Russia’s position as the world’s second-largest gold producer remains strong, with production expected to grow through 2027, despite the significant drawdown in institutional reserves to their lowest level

A buying frenzy has emptied gold inventories across China’s banking sector as the precious metal hits consecutive record highs, reaching $2,942.71 per ounce. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China reports nearly all sizes of their Ruyi Gold bars are out of stock, with only 10-gram bars showing limited availability. Similar shortages are seen at other major institutions, including Agricultural Bank of China and China Construction Bank, while Bank of China has moved to a preorder system. Local gold stores are also affected, with one Shanghai retailer selling out of 100-gram bars before the Chinese New Year.

As gold experiences a remarkable rally with over 40% gains in the past 12 months, outpacing the S&P 500’s performance by double, a controversial proposal has emerged regarding America’s gold reserves. The suggestion to adjust the bookkeeping valuation of these reserves could theoretically add $750 billion to the U.S. Treasury overnight. However, at least one expert is sounding the alarm, warning that attempting to capitalize on this potential windfall could trigger an “Armageddon” event in the markets. The strong performance of gold reflects growing investor concerns about fiat currency stability and potential economic instability.