Dutch Central Bank Increases Gold Holdings as a Backstop
Aerdt Houben, Director of Financial Markets for the Dutch Central Bank (DNB), recently discussed the bank's decision to increase its gold holdings and the potential role of gold as a hedge in the event of a financial collapse. Houben emphasized that gold, due to its properties, could serve as a backstop in a worldwide economic disaster.
In a recent interview, Houben acknowledged that the Netherlands, along with other European central banks, has been increasing its gold holdings. Currently, the central bank holds 612 tonnes of gold, valued at approximately 35 billion euros ($38.2 billion). These holdings are diversified across various locations, including the Federal Reserve, London, Canada, and the Netherlands.
Houben highlighted that the Netherlands' gold holdings represent 4% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), placing it in the seventh position among the top ten central bank gold holdings in terms of GDP. This demonstrates the government's recognition of gold as a valuable asset.
Gold as Insurance and its Intrinsic Value
When asked if the Netherlands should acquire more gold as insurance, Houben expressed his belief that the current holdings are sufficient. He explained that in the event of a collapse, the value of gold reserves would skyrocket, making it unnecessary to fully cover the potential losses.
Houben further justified the central bank's focus on gold by emphasizing its stability, utility, and intrinsic value. He described gold as a fungible and liquid commodity, easily tradable worldwide. Moreover, he stated that gold is an outstanding foundation for an exchange rate system.
Implications of European Banks Increasing Gold Holdings
According to gold market analyst Jan Nieuwenhuijs, the accumulation of gold by European banks suggests that their confidence in the euro is not absolute. The increased gold reserves may indicate preparations for a possible return to a gold standard. Notably, China has also been steadily increasing its gold holdings, with reserves surpassing 2,113 tonnes in July.
Nieuwenhuijs concluded that the Dutch Central Bank's encouragement of gold ownership indirectly supports a transition towards a gold-based monetary system. This suggests that a return to a gold standard is becoming more likely.
What are your thoughts on the possibility of a return to a gold standard? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
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By: Sergio Goschenko
Title: Gold as a Hedge in Financial Collapse Scenarios: Insights from the Dutch Central Bank
Sourced From: news.bitcoin.com/dutch-central-bank-director-props-up-gold-for-financial-collapse-scenario/
Published Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:30:04 +0000
