A significant financial change, known as Basel III, is set to be implemented on July 1, 2025, and it may not yet have been widely recognised. Gold and wealth are expected to be significantly impacted by these global banking regulations. The importance of Basel III is outlined below. 

What Is Basel III? 

Rules under Basel III, a global framework for banking, are established to determine the assets deemed safest for banks. From 2025, gold will be classified as a “Tier 1” asset, allowing physical gold to be valued at its full market price within banks’ core reserves. Previously, a 50% discount was applied to gold, rendering it less reliable than cash or government bonds. Now, its value is being fully acknowledged. 

Why Basel III Matters to You

This update is not merely a technical adjustment for bankers; a signal is being sent that gold’s role as real money is being restored. The reasons for its relevance are as follows:

Gold’s Status as a Trusted Safe Haven:

According to the World Gold Council, significant quantities of gold—244 tons in Q1 2025 alone, 24% above the recent average—have been acquired by central banks. Protection against inflation and debt is being sought, as gold’s value is maintained when paper currencies weaken. Trust in gold by global financial institutions suggests its consideration by individuals.

Widespread Interest in Gold:

In a 2025 Gallup poll, gold was viewed by 24% of Americans as the best long-term investment, surpassing stocks. Amid volatile markets, gold’s stability is increasingly being sought by investors.

Bright Prospects for Gold:

Gold has long been regarded as a cornerstone of wealth preservation. Economic challenges, central bank acquisitions, the U.S. credit downgrade, ongoing Chinese gold purchases, trade tensions, recession concerns, and strong safe-haven demand are all seen as indicators of substantial potential gains for gold in the years ahead. 

What Steps Should Be Taken? 

The importance of gold in wealth protection is underscored by Basel III. Action need not be limited to central bankers. A 15% allocation of a portfolio to gold, diversified across various denominations and types, is recommended. As prices fluctuate, rebalancing is advised to maintain a steady allocation. 

The Bottom Line 

A clear message is delivered by Basel III: gold’s status as money is being reaffirmed. Gold is being stockpiled by central banks, supported by regulators, and increasingly recognised by investors. Its value has been championed for years, and action is now urged. Gold should be incorporated into portfolios to safeguard and enhance wealth in an uncertain world.