The country has increased its holdings every month since March 2015.
The CBR has been increasing the country's gold reserves to meet the goal set by President Vladimir Putin to make Russia less vulnerable to geopolitical risks. The United States is still the largest owner of gold, with 8,134 tons. Germany is in second place with 3,374 tons. The International Monetary Fund owns 2,814 tons. France is the fourth-largest bullion holder.