$8.6 billion increase
in BDL’s gold holdings

Record levels in international bullion markets

International gold prices have surged to an all-time record, closing at $3,353 per ounce. This sharp rise has significantly boosted the value of Lebanon’s official gold reserves. The Central Bank (BDL), which holds 9.2 million ounces (286.83 tons), now has reserves valued at approximately $32.7 billion.

Compared to the end of last year—when gold closed at $2,606 per ounce—this represents an increase of $8.6 billion in value since the start of 2025. Its value in April 2025 had reached $30 billion. In October 2019 it was valued at $13.7 billion, when the country’s economic and financial crisis began and gold traded at an average of $1,500 per ounce. By the end of 2024, the reserves were valued at $24 billion.

This sharp increase has pushed BDL’s total foreign currency reserve assets to reach approximately $45 billion.

The upward trend in gold prices reflects global investor appetite for safe-haven assets amid mounting fears of an economic slowdown, particularly following new U.S. tariff measures, and increases in war risks around the world.

Despite the growing value of its gold reserves, Lebanon is legally prohibited from selling or using the gold as collateral. The law, enacted decades ago, positions the gold stockpile as a strategic national asset and a final financial buffer.