In the second quarter, despite a slowdown in central bank purchases, the demand for gold bars remained high due to wealthy individuals and corporates seeking safe-haven investments. According to a quarterly report by the World Gold Council (WGC), gold demand increased by 7 per cent, reaching 1,255 tonnes in the three months leading up to June on an annualized basis. This surge was primarily driven by bilateral over-the-counter (OTC) investment buying from individuals and companies.

One notable region where gold demand experienced a substantial rise was Turkey, where both millionaires and companies turned to gold in the OTC market as a store of value. The surge in demand was triggered by the lira’s sharp decline to a record low during and after the country’s election in May. According to John Reade, the chief market strategist at the WGC, Turkey accounted for over a third of the 355 tonnes of OTC gold demand. He pointed out that much of this activity appeared to be related to high net worth individuals and corporates seeking protection against currency weakness.

OTC buying is known for its opacity in the gold market, as it involves numerous private deals between buyers and banks or refineries. However, the report compiled by Metals Focus, commissioned by the World Gold Council, estimates OTC demand based on supply and demand data, as well as anecdotal evidence.

The notable surge in bilateral over-the-counter (OTC) investment buying from individuals and companies reflects a growing trend among high net worth individuals and businesses seeking to protect their wealth against currency weakness and economic uncertainties. Gold has traditionally been considered a safe asset during times of market volatility and economic turmoil, and the increased demand indicates a lack of confidence in other investment options during the period in question.

The article highlights Turkey as a prominent example of this trend, with Turkish millionaires and companies turning to gold on the OTC market as a store of value amidst a record low in the value of the lira. This suggests that investors in the country sought refuge in gold to shield their wealth from the adverse effects of the declining currency

The implications of this surge in gold demand are multifaceted. Firstly, it underscores the ongoing relevance of gold as a valuable asset for diversifying investment portfolios and hedging against financial risks. As wealthy individuals and corporations increase their exposure to gold, it could lead to further price support for the precious metal.

Secondly, the rise in OTC buying for gold highlights a relatively opaque aspect of the gold market. Private deals between buyers and banks or refineries make it challenging to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the market dynamics, which can impact price movements and supply-demand equilibrium.

Additionally, the surge in gold demand may have implications for global economies and financial markets. As investors turn to gold for safety, it might reflect concerns about potential economic downturns or geopolitical tensions. Such shifts in demand for safe-haven assets can influence broader market sentiment and impact capital flows.

In conclusion, the increased demand for gold bars in the second quarter by wealthy individuals and corporates seeking safe-haven investments signifies a growing desire to safeguard wealth amid currency weakness and economic uncertainties. While this trend reinforces the role of gold as a safe asset, its implications extend to market dynamics, global economies, and investment strategies. Investors and policymakers should closely monitor these developments to gauge the evolving sentiment and potential risks in the financial landscape.

August 1, 2023 Delino Gayweh Serrari Financial

photo source Google