Why the Chinese bank keeps buying more gold

The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) confirms its strategy of increasing its gold reserves by extending its purchases for a fifteenth consecutive month in January 2026, thus consolidating a fundamental trend that is reshaping global monetary balances.

According to the latest official data published this Saturday, February 7, the gold reserves of the Asian giant climbed to 74.19 million troy ounces, compared to 74.15 million the previous month, illustrating a systematic and unwavering commitment to accumulation despite fluctuations in global prices.

This frantic quest for gold bars responds to the imperative of diversifying foreign exchange reserves, as China actively seeks to reduce its historical dependence on the US dollar in a context of persistent geopolitical tensions and the increasing militarization of the world’s reserve currency.

By stockpiling gold, a tangible asset free from counterparty risk and impossible to freeze through international sanctions, Beijing is strengthening the credibility and stability of the yuan while protecting itself against inflation and the volatility of Western bond markets.

This record accumulation positions China among the dominant players in the gold market, directly influencing spot prices and prompting other BRICS central banks to follow this « de-dollarization » movement through this safe-haven asset.

This long-term strategy transforms gold into a pillar of Chinese national security, guaranteeing the country greater financial autonomy at a time when the international monetary system is undergoing an unprecedented period of fragmentation.