Gold price breaks the $5500 mark: BRICS countries accelerate alternative to the US dollar

At the beginning of 2026, the price of gold broke through the $5,500 per ounce mark for the first time. This milestone marks a turning point in the global financial architecture and reflects profound structural shifts. The price increase is driven by multiple factors that go beyond traditional commodity markets and directly impact the geopolitical reordering of the world economy.

Why the gold price has risen to the $5,500 per ounce level

The weakening of the US dollar played a significant role in this price development. At the same time, the composition of global currency reserves is fundamentally changing. According to NS3, the BRICS countries have reached a significant milestone: their combined gold holdings now surpass US Treasury bonds for the first time. This signals a historic shift away from the dollar-dominated order.

BRICS gold reserves surpass US Treasury bonds

The five major emerging economies control about half of the world’s gold production combined and are strategically leveraging this position. The expansion of gold reserves serves as a deliberate tool to reduce dependence on the dollar. At the same time, the BRICS countries are advancing the development of alternative, gold-backed currency mechanisms. This initiative aims to challenge the traditional hegemony of the US dollar and establish a pluralistic reserve system.

Geopolitical factors and structural shifts drive further increases

Market analysts expect further upward trends in gold prices in the coming months. The combination of ongoing geopolitical tensions, structural changes in global reserve policies, and the continued diversification by the BRICS nations is likely to sustain the upward trend in gold. The $5,500 per ounce price could thus be only the beginning of a longer-term price increase.