International News
China Extends Gold Buying Streak as Central Bank Reserves Rise Despite June Price Correction
The PBoC Increased its Gold Reserves by 480,000 fFine Troy Ounces During June, Taking Total Holdings to 75.44 Million Fine Troy Ounces
China continued to strengthen its strategic gold holdings in June, extending its bullion accumulation to a 20th consecutive month even as international gold prices recorded their sharpest monthly decline since 2008. The sustained purchases by the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) underscore the country’s long-term reserve diversification strategy amid ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
The PBoC increased its gold reserves by 480,000 fine troy ounces—equivalent to nearly 15 metric tonnes—during June, taking total holdings to 75.44 million fine troy ounces. This represents the central bank’s largest monthly acquisition since October 2023, and highlights continued institutional confidence in gold as a strategic reserve asset despite short-term market volatility.
While physical holdings increased, the market value of China’s gold reserves declined significantly due to falling bullion prices. The value of reserves stood at US$303.72 billion at the end of June, down from US$340.75 billion in May, reflecting the impact of gold’s steep monthly price correction.
Gold prices are currently trading within a consolidation range as investors await fresh guidance from the U.S. Federal Reserve on the future trajectory of monetary policy. Market participants are closely monitoring the release of the minutes from the Federal Reserve’s June 16–17 policy meeting, which are expected to provide greater clarity on interest rate expectations under Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh.
According to Nicholas Frappell, Global Head of Institutional Markets at ABC Refinery, recent price action indicates that bullion is establishing a technical support base. He noted that investors are largely positioning themselves ahead of the Fed minutes, which could influence expectations for short-term interest rates and, consequently, the outlook for precious metals.
Investment bank JPMorgan has maintained a measured outlook for gold through the remainder of 2026, citing softer-than-expected demand across key consuming sectors. The bank believes that while gold retains its long-term appeal, near-term upside may remain limited without stronger investment or central bank demand.
JPMorgan projects average gold prices of approximately US$4,300 per ounce in the third quarter, rising modestly to around US$4,500 per ounce in the fourth quarter, suggesting a gradual recovery rather than a sustained rally.
Outlook
China’s continued accumulation of gold reserves reinforces the strategic importance central banks continue to place on the precious metal, even during periods of price weakness. With global markets awaiting critical signals from the U.S. Federal Reserve and analysts forecasting a measured recovery in bullion prices, central bank purchases are expected to remain a key pillar supporting the long-term gold market.
International News
Mark Raksha Bandhan With The Art Of Gifting By Lotus Arts De Vivre
Indinoor Brings South Indian Heritage To Life With A Contemporary Temple Jewellery Edit Curated By Shanaya Kapoor
Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of a bond unlike any other. One shaped by cherished traditions and countless moments over the years. This festive season, Lotus Arts de Vivre brings a distinctive approach to gifting with a selection of jewellery, accessories and objets d’art created to be cherished well beyond the occasion.
Bringing together rare natural materials, exceptional artistry and centuries-old techniques from around the world, each creation tells a story of its own. From intricate Japanese lacquer and Cloisonné to luminous mother-of-pearl, abalone and fine marquetry, the edit offers thoughtful gifts for those looking to mark Raksha Bandhan with something truly distinctive.
Marquetry Clutch Bag with Carved Abalone Bird
A statement accessory rooted in an age-old decorative technique, the Marquetry Clutch Bag is created using imported European rye straw, which is soaked, split, sun-dried and ironed before being meticulously arranged into intricate patterns.

At its centre sits a delicately carved abalone bird with a diamond-set eye, complemented by silver and gold-plated detailing. Mother-of-pearl flower motifs with peridot centres and diamond accents along the bamboo-inspired detailing add another layer of intricacy. Taking over three months to create with more than six craftsmen involved at various stages, the clutch makes for a memorable gift that brings together art, nature and fashion.
Japanese Garden Inspired Lacquer Bangle with Diamond and Red Stone

The piece features diamonds and red stones set in 18-karat gold against a deep lacquer surface. Its creation draws upon the centuries-old Japanese Maki-e technique, where gold or silver powder is carefully applied with brushes to build intricate decorative compositions. Requiring approximately six months and the expertise of more than seven designers and craftsmen, the bangle is a wearable piece of art steeped in Japanese tradition.
Created by acclaimed Japanese lacquer artisan Kita Hama from Japan’s Noto region and embellished by Lotus Arts de Vivre, this sculptural bangle draws inspiration from the serenity and beauty of a Japanese garden
Cloisonné Necklace with Turquoise, Pearl, Red Lacquer and Cord
For a sibling drawn to jewellery with colour and character, the Cloisonné Necklace brings together turquoise beads, pearls, red lacquer and black beads around an intricately enamelled central pendant.

The necklace celebrates Cloisonné, a centuries-old decorative technique in which fine metal wires are shaped into delicate compartments and filled with layers of coloured enamel. The addition of red lacquer brings another historic Asian art form into the design, resulting in a striking interplay of colour, texture and traditional techniques with a contemporary sensibility.
Mother-of-Pearl Canapé Plate with Silver Birds

For those who appreciate beautiful objects for the home, the Mother-of-Pearl Canapé Plate transforms the natural iridescence of mother-of-pearl into an elegant serving and decorative piece.
Sourced from Southeast Asia, the mother-of-pearl is accented with intricately detailed sterling silver birds. Equally suited to serving hors d’oeuvres and desserts or displayed as an object on a coffee table or desk, the piece brings a touch of nature into the home. Taking approximately two months to complete, it passes through the hands of more than six craftsmen and designers from design to production.
Abalone Shell Bowl with Birds
Celebrating the beauty of materials in their natural form, the Abalone Shell Bowl uses a Mexican abalone shell distinguished by its luminous, iridescent colours and organic markings. Sterling silver birds perched along the shell introduce a whimsical signature detail.

Designed to work as both a serving piece and a decorative object, the bowl can hold flowers, desserts or small bites, or simply be displayed on its own. Each shell carries its own natural variations, making every piece inherently individual. The creation takes approximately one and a half months to complete, with several designers and craftsmen involved across its various stages.
This Raksha Bandhan, Lotus Arts de Vivre offers gifts that feel considered rather than conventional pieces shaped by rare materials, artistic traditions and meticulous handwork, chosen to celebrate a bond that is equally one of a kind.
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