In response to geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, a growing number of wealthy individuals from around the world are relocating their gold assets to secure vaults abroad. One of the top destinations for this trend is Singapore, reports the Baltimore Chronicle with reference to CNBC.
Just outside Singapore’s airport stands a six-story facility called The Reserve — an onyx-adorned vault equipped with advanced security systems. Currently, it holds approximately $1.5 billion worth of gold and silver bullion.
Between January and April 2025, demand for precious metal storage at The Reserve rose by 88% compared to the same period in 2024. Sales of gold and silver bars surged by 200% during this time.
According to Gregor Gregersen, founder of The Reserve, 90% of new clients come from outside Singapore. He explained that growing fears of instability, tariffs, and financial crises are pushing people to seek safer places to store their wealth.
“The idea of placing physical metal in a safe jurisdiction like Singapore, with parties they can trust, is becoming a major trend today,” Gregersen noted.
Gold prices have recently reached record highs, fueled in part by the metal’s reputation as a safe haven during volatile times. Heightened demand has been driven by escalating trade tensions between the United States and China and the mass sell-off of U.S. assets in April.
Although prices have recently dipped as risk appetite improved due to easing tensions between the two economic superpowers, some market observers still believe gold could reach $5,000 per ounce in 2026. As of now, spot gold is trading at $3,346.32 per ounce — near historic levels.
Gregersen added that wealthy individuals are increasingly favoring physical gold bars over paper assets due to the desire to minimize counterparty and geopolitical risks.
While holding physical gold does not eliminate price volatility, it does help reduce exposure to certain risks associated with paper gold investments.
Analysts have dubbed Singapore the “Geneva of the East,” citing its political stability, strong economy, and robust security infrastructure.
Additionally, Singapore serves as a global transit hub, making it not only convenient for storage but also ideal for transporting or retrieving gold. This further enhances its appeal to wealthy clients worldwide.
Though Dubai remains a competitor, analysts note that its storage procedures tend to be more bureaucratic — a factor that may deter international investors.
Earlier we wrote that Spain cancels ‘golden visa’ program for home buyers over €500,000.