Central Banks Sell Record Gold Amid Iran War

Surging energy prices from US-Israeli conflict drive historic gold selloff by national monetary authorities

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A minimalist abstract illustration using geometric metallic gold, deep red, and dark grey shapes to conceptually represent the rapid selling of gold reserves by central banks in response to the economic turmoil of the Iran war.The record-breaking gold selloff by central banks reflects the severe economic pressures caused by the widening US-Israeli conflict with Iran.Seattle Today

Central banks globally set a new monthly record for gold sales in March as the ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran sent energy prices soaring, leading to a steep $1,000 drop in gold prices over the past few weeks. Analysts say central banks' gold selling is the primary driver behind the recent plunge in the precious metal's value.

Why it matters

The record-breaking gold selloff by central banks reflects the severe economic turmoil caused by the escalating conflict with Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets and sent shockwaves through financial systems worldwide. This development highlights the growing economic pressures facing nations as a result of the widening war.

The details

According to industry analysts, the surge in central bank gold sales was directly tied to the sharp rise in energy prices stemming from the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran. The jump in oil and gas costs has forced central banks to liquidate their gold holdings in order to shore up their economies and currencies amid the growing financial instability.

  • Central banks set a new monthly record for gold sales in March 2026.
  • Gold prices have dropped by $1,000 over the past few weeks.

The players

Central Banks

National monetary authorities that have been selling record amounts of gold in response to the economic fallout from the US-Israeli war with Iran.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The historic gold selloff by central banks underscores the severe economic strain caused by the widening US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets and forced nations to liquidate their gold reserves to prop up their currencies and economies.