As wars spread, trade tensions escalate and inflation remains stubbornly high, governments around the world are quietly buying more gold, a sign many are preparing for a future they believe will be more uncertain.A new World Gold Council survey found that 89% of central banks expect global gold reserves to grow over the next year, while a record 45% plan to add to their own holdings.Central banks are the institutions that manage a country's money and financial reserves.For everyday Americans worried about rising prices, growing government debt and what comes next for the economy, the trend is worth paying attention to.A SINGLE TRUMP ANNOUNCEMENT SPARKS BILLIONS IN LOSSES ACROSS GOLD AND SILVERSome experts say central banks buying more gold is a sign they expect today's economic and geopolitical uncertainty to stick around.That's because gold has long been considered a safe place to put money during wars, market turmoil and periods of high inflation because it isn't tied to the economy or policies of any one country.Gold has long been viewed as a safe-haven asset during periods of war, inflation and market volatility because, unlike currencies or government debt, it isn't tied to the financial health of any single country.
(Matt Jelonek/Bloomberg/Getty Images)For decades, central banks have invested heavily in U.S.Treasurys — government debt backed by the U.S.
and considered among the world's safest investments.But Cavatoni said many countries are now adding gold because they want another layer of protection against inflation, global instability and economic turmoil.WHAT TRUMP’S NEXT PICK TO LEAD THE FEDERAL RESERVE MEANS FOR YOUR WALLET"They're looking at diversifying," Cavatoni said."And gold fills that need because it provides liquidity, diversification and protection against inflation and geopolitical uncertainty."The World Gold Council survey backs that up.About 90% of central banks said gold's performance during times of crisis is one of the main reasons...