Why the BRICS Just Launched their Gold-backed Unit
Why the BRICS Just Launched their Gold-backed Unit
Arcadia Economics: 12-5-2025
The financial world is buzzing with a development that could mark a seismic shift in international trade and monetary policy: the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – have officially launched a new gold-backed digital unit of account, aptly named the “unit.”
This isn’t just another digital token; it’s a meticulously crafted system with the potential to redefine global economic relations.
Launched on October 31st in a controlled trial phase, the “unit” operates on blockchain technology, seamlessly integrating with existing national currencies.
What sets it apart is its innovative backing structure: 40% gold and 60% major BRICS currencies. Crucially, there are no bonds or long-term debt involved.
This is a bold departure from the fiat currency systems that have dominated global finance for decades, and it echoes an idea first proposed at the influential 1944 Bretton Woods Summit – an idea that was ultimately sidelined in favor of U.S. dollar dominance and the International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights (SDR) system.
This move signals the establishment of a new monetary zone, a bridge between East and West, with gold poised to become the central “password” or reserve asset for transactions.
The “unit” is currently undergoing a “pumpkin batch” phase – a controlled environment allowing real transactions and daily data publication.
This staged rollout highlights a growing divergence between Western and Eastern financial spheres, suggesting that future trade with BRICS nations may increasingly necessitate holding gold and key BRICS currencies in reserve baskets.
This ambitious financial undertaking unfolds against a backdrop of significant market activity. We’re witnessing rising yields, fluctuating commodity prices for gold, silver, copper, and energy products, and a palpable metal supply squeeze, particularly in industrial powerhouse China.
The metal market, in fact, is exhibiting unusual behavior, with indications of a rolling shortage and backwardation in silver – a clear sign of stress in the physical availability of these crucial commodities.
Looking ahead, we can anticipate deeper dives into these market dynamics, including JP Morgan’s 2026 outlook for base and precious metals.
The evolving financial ecosystem will also necessitate a closer examination of cryptocurrencies actively engaged in payment rails, such as Ripple and Cardano, which are likely to play an increasingly important role.
The launch of the BRICS “unit” is undoubtedly a development to watch closely. It represents a potential paradigm shift, challenging established financial norms and paving the way for a more multipolar monetary landscape.