Dutch central bank moves billions in gold to U.K. from Ottawa, New York

On Wednesday, the Dutch central bank announced the relocation of billions of dollars worth of gold reserves from North America to the United Kingdom. The move was described as "crisis preparedness" in the current climate of global political unrest. Between March and August, approximately 86 metric tons (94.8 tons) of gold were transferred from New York and Ottawa, Canada to London.

Prior to the transfer, New York held 31.3% of the Dutch gold reserves, while Ottawa owned 19.7%. Following the relocation, both cities now hold 18.5% of the Dutch gold. The Dutch central bank owns a total of 612.4 metric tons (675 tons) of gold, valued at 72.2 billion euros (about $83.6 billion) at the end of 2025. Bank Governor Olaf Sleijpen stated that the relocation enhances the tradability of the gold reserves, aiming to strengthen the bank's resilience and preparedness.

The gold transfer involved physically moving over 27 metric tons (30 tons) of gold to a secure Dutch vault near Zeist, as well as selling around 59 metric tons (65 tons) in New York and using the proceeds to purchase gold in London. The Dutch bank believes that the gold held at the Bank of England meets modern international trade standards and is the most easily tradable, making it the most readily available in a crisis situation.