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In a strategic move to bolster its financial fortitude, the National Bank of Georgia has announced a significant acquisition in the global gold market. Forging ahead with a fresh investment approach, the bank has successfully procured 7 tonnes of monetary gold, a decision that marks a historical first for the nation’s financial practices.
This substantial purchase was executed on the London gold bullion market, a leading global center for gold trading. The newly acquired gold, which accounts for around 11% of the National Bank’s international reserves, is currently stored in London. Plans are underway to transfer this valuable asset to the Bank’s vault in Georgia, ensuring its inclusion in the national reserves.
“This initiative not only augments our reserves but introduces a layer of diversification by incorporating gold into our international reserves for the first time,” stated Natia Turnava, Acting President of the National Bank. She emphasized the importance of this strategic decision, highlighting gold’s perpetual value and reliability as an asset. The move is perceived as a critical step towards enhancing Georgia’s financial stability and resilience.
The addition of gold to Georgia’s foreign exchange reserves is part of a broader objective to fortify the country’s economic security. This initiative comes at a time when Georgia’s international reserve assets have shown a steady increase, demonstrating a robust and forward-thinking financial strategy. As of the beginning of 2024, the reserve assets stood at $5 billion, up from the $4.9 billion at the outset of 2023 and $4.27 billion at the start of 2022.
Internationally, gold remains a cornerstone in the reserve assets of central banks around the globe. Reports indicate that nearly an eighth of all foreign exchange reserves are held in gold, with central banks collectively owning about 20% of the world’s gold. The year 2023 witnessed central banks acquiring a total of 1,037 tonnes of gold, constituting 28% of the total gold demand worldwide.
This acquisition by the National Bank of Georgia signifies a strategic diversification and strengthening of the country’s international reserves. By investing in gold, the bank leverages the asset’s inherent value and stability, contributing to the overall financial security and economic sovereignty of Georgia.
