Costco Gold Bars Surge 108% As Retail Giant Restricts Member Purchases
According to Yahoo Finance, Costco began selling 1-ounce gold bars in late 2023. The warehouse retailer initially offered two products: the PAMP Suisse Lady Fortuna Veriscan bar at $1,979.99 and the Rand Refinery bar at $1,949.99.
As of December 2025, the PAMP Suisse bar sells for $4,119.99. This represents a 108 percent increase from the original price. The price surge aligns with broader gold market trends, which saw the precious metal rise roughly 65 percent throughout 2025.
Costco now restricts purchases to one transaction per membership. Members can buy a maximum of four units within a 24-hour period. The limits reflect persistent demand despite record-high prices.
Why Record Prices Matter For Investors
Gold reached $4,500 per ounce in December 2025, according to Trading Economics. The precious metal posted its 50th record-breaking session in 2025. The rally makes this year's performance the strongest annual gain since 1979.
Money reports that Wells Fargo analysts estimate Costco earns between $100 million and $200 million monthly from gold bar sales. The revenue demonstrates how mainstream retailers now compete in precious metals markets.
Investors seek gold during economic uncertainty. Current factors include ongoing tariff disputes, rising government deficits, and tensions in multiple global regions. Lower interest rates also make non-yielding assets like gold more attractive compared to bonds.
Industry Shifts Transform Precious Metals Access
Traditional bullion dealers face new competition from warehouse clubs. Costco's entry into gold sales has democratized precious metals ownership. First-time buyers now purchase gold bars alongside groceries and household items.
J.P. Morgan forecasts gold prices averaging $5,055 per ounce by the final quarter of 2026. The investment bank expects prices to climb toward $5,400 per ounce by the end of 2027. Central bank demand remains elevated despite higher gold prices.
Central banks globally hold nearly 36,200 tonnes of gold. This accounts for almost 20 percent of official reserves, up from around 15 percent at the end of 2023. Diversification away from dollar reserve holdings has accelerated in recent years.
The retail gold market faces challenges. Costco does not buy back gold bars or accept returns on precious metals. Many cash-for-gold businesses pay below market prices. Sellers typically receive 5 to 10 percent less than spot prices from most dealers.
Further Reading
For deeper insights into global adoption trends, our Alternative Financial Systems Index tracks regulatory frameworks and adoption metrics across 50 countries. The index provides data on how different nations approach precious metals markets and alternative investment vehicles.
