(Kitco News) - According to some analysts, the Chinese gold market could face challenges this year as higher prices impact consumer demand for physical bullion and jewelry. However, the Asian nation will continue to play a significant role in the global gold market as a new segment of the economy enters. Last Friday, China launched a new pilot program that, for the first time ever, allows insurance companies to buy gold as an investment asset. Under the program, 10 insurance companies—including the nation’s two biggest, ICC Property & Casualty Co. and China Life Insurance Co.—will be able to invest up to 1% of their assets in gold. According to analysts at Minsheng Securities Co., insurance companies could potentially purchase up to $27.4 billion worth of gold as a long-term investment. https://www.kitco.com/news/article/2025-02-11/chinese-insurance-companies-can-now-invest-gold