The World Gold Council reports that central banks bought significantly less gold in the opening months of the year than previously believed. According to the group, initial estimates overstated early-year demand, and revised data indicate purchases were lower at the start of the year. The report also says that demand later improves, with central bank buying rebounding after the initial period. Despite the rebound, the World Gold Council projects that total central bank gold purchases are likely to decline over the course of the year. The two accounts describe the same core findings: a downward revision to early-year purchasing figures, a subsequent recovery in demand, and an overall expectation of weaker buy volumes compared with earlier expectations. The information is presented as an update based on the World Gold Council’s assessment of central bank activity and broader market demand.