DiamondBuzz
Botswana braces for economic downturn as diamond slump persists
Botswana’s economy faces a economic downturn with the government now projecting a 0.9% GDP contraction amid a protracted diamond sales downturn. Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe highlighted this grim outlook, stating, “The macroeconomic picture for the full year remains fragile, driven by persistent weakness in the diamond sector.”
This forecast marks a sharp reversal from earlier optimism. After a 3.0% GDP contraction in 2024—following 2.7% growth the year prior—Gaolathe’s February budget had anticipated a robust 3.3% expansion. Rough diamonds, which underpin over a third of GDP, nearly all export revenues, and 40% of government income, have instead triggered this slide.
Compounding the pressure, global ratings agencies Moody’s and S&P recently downgraded Botswana’s credit profile, citing plummeting production and sales volumes.
DiamondBuzz
Richemont and Signet Jewelers Could Join Global Diamond Consortium In Bid For De Beers
Richemont, Signet Would Connect The Consortium To Key Global Growth Vectors Spanning Luxury High Jewelry and Mass-Market Retail.
The Global Diamond Consortium (GDC)
Richemont and Signet Jewelers are reported to be in talks about joining the Global Diamond Consortium (GDC), the preferred bidder for De Beers according to a Bloomberg News report.
GDC was selected in July 2026 as one of Anglo American’s preferred bidders for De Beers as part of Anglo American’s ongoing corporate restructuring.
The potential inclusion of Richemont—owner of luxury Maisons including Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels—and Signet Jewelers—the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared—would connect the consortium to key global growth vectors spanning luxury high jewelry and mass-market retail.
Strengthening the Natural Diamond Ecosystem: Participation by major luxury brands and global retail leaders reinforces commitment across the entire value chain—from responsible mining and manufacturing to consumer engagement.
Balanced Governance Structure: Discussions center on potential minority equity positions that would support long-term category growth while maintaining appropriate separation between ownership and commercial strategy.
Broad Stakeholder Participation: The consortium continues to advance talks with host governments, including discussions with the Government of Botswana regarding a potential increase in its equity share in De Beers from 15% to approximately 25%, alongside participation from private investors and southern African host nations.
Discussions between GDC, Richemont, Signet, and participating government stakeholders remain ongoing. Terms of any potential participation, including the size of equity interests, have not been finalized and remain subject to regulatory approvals and definitive documentation.
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