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Gold investment demand reached a historic $555 billion in 2025, powered by an 84% surge in investment flows that left Bitcoin ETFs struggling with massive outflows. The precious metal achieved 53 all-time highs during the year, underscoring a dramatic shift in investor preferences.
Record-Breaking Gold Performance
Physically backed gold ETFs attracted $89 billion in inflows throughout 2025, according to World Gold Council data. ETF holdings climbed by 801 tons to reach an all-time high of 4,025 tons, with total assets under management doubling to $559 billion. US gold ETFs played a leading role in this unprecedented surge, though specific figures for American funds were not disclosed in the truncated report.
The performance represents a stark contrast to Bitcoin ETFs, which experienced significant outflows as investors rotated away from cryptocurrency investments. The 84% increase in gold investment flows highlights the precious metal’s appeal during a period when digital assets faced headwinds.
Investment Flow Reversal
The massive swing from crypto to gold reflects changing investor sentiment in 2025. While Bitcoin ETFs, which launched with fanfare in previous years, saw billions in outflows, gold’s traditional safe-haven appeal reasserted itself. The World Gold Council’s findings show total gold demand reaching the $555 billion milestone, driven primarily by the investment surge rather than industrial or jewelry demand.
The 801-ton increase in ETF holdings represents substantial institutional and retail investor appetite for physical gold exposure, contributing to the precious metal’s string of record highs throughout the year.
Sources: CryptoSlate, Financialpost, Mexiconewsdaily
