For the first time in history, a gold bar has reached the impressive value of one million dollars. This milestone was achieved on Friday when the spot price of gold exceeded $2,500 per troy ounce, marking a record high. Typically, gold bars weigh around 400 ounces, which translates to each bar being valued at over $1 million. However, there are nuances to consider regarding this valuation. Gold bars traded in the London market, recognized as the primary hub for gold transactions, generally contain between 350 to 430 ounces of pure gold. Additionally, consumers have the option to purchase smaller, more budget-friendly gold bars, such as those available at Costco.
The significant rise in gold prices this year can be attributed to a surge in demand from central banks globally. In the first six months of this year, central banks acquired a total of 483.3 tons of gold, which is roughly equivalent to nearly 40,000 bars. This increased demand has contributed to the remarkable rise in gold prices, alongside anticipations of a more relaxed monetary policy from the US Federal Reserve. Despite the price fluctuations, many investors remain keen on purchasing gold, attracted by its potential to protect against inflation and broaden their investments during uncertain times.