During times of economic pressure... Russia sells more than half of its gold reserves

Between May 2022 and early January 2026, Russia made a decisive economic move: selling approximately 71% of its National Wealth Fund gold reserves. The stark numbers tell the story: reserves dropped from 554.9 tons to just 160.2 tons, a sharp decline reflecting real economic pressures on the country.

Full Crisis Data

This step is not as crazy as some might think; it is a necessary action at a critical time. The country’s total liquid reserves amount to about 4.1 trillion rubles (combining gold and Chinese yuan), which are vital funds for maintaining financial stability. Economic warnings indicate the possibility of an additional withdrawal of up to 60% of these reserves (equivalent to 2.5 trillion rubles) if oil and the ruble remain stable or decline.

Chain Effects on Markets

At such times, pressure gradually transmits across markets: reserves weaken, exchange rates face increasing stress, and geopolitical tensions complicate the picture further. Serious market observers monitor major movements in commodities and currencies, especially since these dynamics could influence price movements in alternative assets like cryptocurrencies.

Caution is required during such periods of uncertainty, especially when dealing with volatile assets. Investors who understand macroeconomic dynamics know that during times of general pressure, movements can be sharp and unpredictable.