Singapore emerges as global hub for gold and lead storage

The Monetary Authority of Singapore has raised the city‑state’s official gold reserves to 197 tonnes for 2026, following a net purchase of four tonnes of bullion. The increase supports the launch of a secure storage hub at Changi Airport slated for October 2026, positioning Singapore as a rival to London as the world’s primary gold‑holding centre.

At the same time, Singapore now holds about 98 % of the London Metal Exchange’s lead inventory – roughly 430,000 tonnes – after LME lead stocks more than doubled to 441,000 tonnes since early 2026. Around three‑quarters of the stored lead originates from India, underscoring Singapore’s role as a logistical gateway for Asian producers. Analysts note that while the visible stockpiles appear ample, actual readily‑available lead remains scarce in many regions, creating price pressures and highlighting underlying supply‑chain tensions.