US No. 1, Germany No. 2 — Where does India stands in gold reserves?

Tue Apr 21 2026

Global gold reserves highlight contrasting economic strategies. The US dominates with the largest holdings, while European nations rely heavily on gold for stability. China is gradually increasing reserves, and India blends cultural and strategic demand. Countries like Russia and Turkey use gold to hedge risks, showing gold remains a key pillar of financial security worldwide.

With over 8,100 tonnes of gold, the United States sits comfortably at the top of the global rankings. What makes this even more striking is that gold forms nearly 78 percent of its foreign reserves. America’s gold stockpile is not just about wealth — it is about trust. In times of crisis, the US still leans on gold as a symbol of financial strength and stability.

Germany holds more than 3,350 tonnes, making it Europe’s largest gold holder. Around 72 percent of its reserves are in gold, reflecting a conservative financial approach shaped by history. For Germany, gold is not just an asset — it is a safeguard against uncertainty. Italy may not dominate headlines, but with 2,451 tonnes, it holds one of the world’s largest gold reserves. An impressive 81 percent of its reserves are in gold, showing a deep reliance on the metal to anchor its financial system.

France closely follows Italy with 2,437 tonnes of gold. What stands out is that over 82 percent of its reserves are gold — among the highest in the world. France uses gold as a stabilising force in an unpredictable global economy.

Russia’s 2,332 tonnes of gold are not just financial assets — they are geopolitical tools. With about 47 percent of reserves in gold, Russia has been steadily increasing its holdings to reduce dependence on Western currencies.

China holds over 2,300 tonnes, but gold makes up only about 10 percent of its reserves. This suggests a different strategy — China is diversifying slowly while keeping most reserves in other assets. Its gold accumulation, however, has been steadily rising.

With 1,039 tonnes, Switzerland remains a key global gold hub. Around 15 percent of its reserves are in gold, reflecting a balanced approach. Known for financial stability, Switzerland treats gold as part of a diversified reserve system.

India holds 880 tonnes of gold, with nearly 19 percent of reserves in the metal. Beyond central bank reserves, gold plays a unique role in India — deeply embedded in culture, savings, and financial security for millions of households.

Japan’s 845 tonnes of gold account for just 5 percent of its reserves. Unlike European nations, Japan relies more on currency reserves like the US dollar, showing a different approach to financial stability.

Turkey rounds out the top 10 with 634 tonnes, where gold makes up around 30 percent of reserves. In recent years, Turkey has actively increased gold holdings to hedge against currency volatility and economic uncertainty.

Source: https://zeenews.india.com