World Gold Council reports Q1 2026 global gold demand rose 74% to $193 billion. Bar and coin demand increased 42% to 474 tonnes (second-largest quarterly rise), central bank purchases reached 244 tonnes, and technology demand rose 1% to 82 tonnes. Jewelry demand fell as investment flows dominated. WGC says geopolitical risk should continue to support demand; ETFs/OTC likely positive but below 2025 levels and bar/coin demand expected to remain strong.

Q1 figures show a 74% rise in gold demand to $193B, bar/coin demand +42% to 474t and central bank purchases of 244t; WGC explicitly cites ongoing geopolitical risk as continued support. These concrete increases and central bank buying justify a bullish sentiment and a moderate market-impact score.