The Netherlands Just Pulled 86.4 Tons of Gold Out of the U.S. to Improve “Crisis Readiness” Amid Global Tensions

The Dutch central bank, De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), transferred 86 metric tonnes of gold from New York to London in 2026, aiming to enhance crisis readiness amid growing global tensions. This move, equivalent to 78.39 metric tonnes, was disclosed publicly by DNB on Wednesday. Of the 86 tonnes, only 27 were physically relocated, with the remaining 59 handled by selling gold in New York and purchasing an equivalent amount in London.

Before the transfer, New York held 31.3% of DNB's gold reserves, Ottawa 19.7%, and London 18.1%. Post-transfer, New York and Ottawa now each hold 18.5% of the Dutch gold reserves, while London records 32.1%, becoming the largest single vault. DNB President Olaf Sleijpen stated that the bank is enhancing its resilience and preparedness, even though the gold transfer is not expected to be utilized.

The move comes as global central banks increase their gold holdings, driven by inflation protection, sanctions concerns, and a shift to reduce dollar exposure.