Investment funds, central banks, and governments are the largest gold reserve holders in the world. A mere four percent of the world owns 12.6 percent of the planet’s gold supply. Governments buy gold in order to protect themselves against inflation and provide added security during uncertain economic times.
The U.S. is the largest holder of gold reserves, possessing approximately 8,133.5 tons worth approximately $269.67 billion. This amount represents 78.3 percent of the total U.S. foreign reserves. Germany owns the second largest amount, an impressive 3,412.6 tons valued at nearly $113.2 billion. The Italian National Bank manages Italy’s gold reserves of 2,451.8 tons. Having this amount of gold, which is valued at about $81.3 billion, makes the Italy the holder of the fourth largest quantity of gold.
France comes in at number five, with only slightly less holdings than Italy. The country owns 2,450.7 tons of the precious metal, which represents 72.6 percent of foreign reserves. Of the top ten holders of the world’s gold, France has the second highest percentage of gold in foreign reserves. The Chinese government has the seventh largest amount of gold holdings in the world, possessing 1054 tons of gold. This supply, valued at nearly $35 billion, accounts for a mere 1.8 percent of the country’s total foreign reserves.
Switzerland is the next largest holder, possessing 1040.1 tons valued at $34.5 billion. Japan holds 765.2 tons of the golden precious metal, worth $25.4 billion, but representing only 2.1 percent of the country’s foreign reserves. The Netherlands is the tenth largest holder of the world’s gold supply, with 612.5 tons worth more than $20 billion.
The amount of gold held by these governments is impressive and unmatched by any individual. People who wish to begin acquiring their own supply of this precious metal can start small. They can buy gold coins, gold jewelry, or even gold stocks to begin building their golden empire.
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