Institutional Investors Bullish on Gold, Predict $5,000 per Ounce by 2026

Goldman Sachs' latest survey reveals a surge in institutional Optimism for gold, with 36% of over 900 clients forecasting prices to breach $5,000 per ounce by end-2026. Another 33% expect a range of $4,500-$5,000, while just 5% anticipate a pullback to $3,500-$4,000. The metal has already rallied 58.6% year-to-date, hitting a record $4,000 in October and trading at $4,175.50 spot on Friday.

Central bank demand dominates the narrative, cited by 38% of respondents as the primary catalyst. Fiscal stress follows at 27%, as governments ramp up borrowing and balance sheets expand. Gold's role as a hedge against inflation, geopolitical risk, and dollar weakness continues to attract retail traders, hedge funds, and institutional capital.

The MOVE index signals extreme momentum, with traders now pricing in rate cuts. Sticky inflation, uneven growth, and cyclical dollar softness reinforce gold's appeal as capital seeks shelter. Central banks globally prioritize bullion for its liquidity and stability amid monetary experimentation.