Gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) saw record inflows of over $19 billion in January, according to the World Gold Council (WGC). Despite recent price declines, North American and Asian markets led the surge in demand for physically backed gold ETFs, pushing global assets under management to a record $669 billion, a 20% increase from the previous month. North American investors contributed $7 billion, marking eight consecutive months of inflows, driven by expectations of future rate cuts and monetary policy uncertainties. Asian markets, particularly China, added $10 billion, fueled by robust gold prices and geopolitical concerns. European ETFs also saw $2 billion in inflows, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid economic pressures.