金价狂飙，意大利笑纳“意外之财”：3000亿黄金压箱底！

Core Viewpoint - Italy's gold reserves, which have been steadfastly protected despite high national debt, are now valued at approximately $300 billion, representing about 13% of the country's GDP, as gold prices reach historic highs [2]. Group 1: Historical Context - Italy's affinity for gold dates back thousands of years, with significant historical milestones including the establishment of the aureus coin during Julius Caesar's reign and the influence of the fiorino coin in medieval Europe [5]. - The modern formation of Italy's gold policy is closely linked to its wartime experiences, particularly the loss of 120 tons of gold to Nazi forces during World War II, which left Italy with only about 20 tons by the end of the war [5][6]. - By 1960, Italy's gold holdings had risen to 1,400 tons, including three-quarters of the gold that was recovered post-war [6]. Group 2: Current Gold Holdings - Italy currently holds the third-largest gold reserves globally, with 2,452 tons, accounting for 75% of its official reserves [7]. - The total global gold reserves amount to 36,360 tons, with Italy's holdings representing a significant portion of this total [7]. - As of the end of last year, gold constituted nearly 75% of Italy's official reserves, surpassing the Eurozone average of 66.5% [12]. Group 3: Economic Implications - Italy's national debt has exceeded €3 trillion (approximately $3.49 trillion), with projections indicating that the debt-to-GDP ratio will reach 137.4% next year [12]. - Despite ongoing calls to sell gold to reduce national debt, the Italian central bank has consistently refused to consider this option, viewing gold as a crucial asset during times of crisis [12][13]. - Experts argue that even selling half of Italy's gold reserves would not significantly alleviate the debt problem, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these reserves as a financial safeguard [13].