International News
Gold near fresh all-time highs ahead of US trading session
Gold’s price (XAU/USD) is seeing gains tick up trading near $2,952 at the time of writing, fueled by a weaker US Dollar (USD) and softening US yields in a reaction to the recent German federal election outcome. Although the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has gained 20% of votes, the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) is comfortable in the lead with 208 seats against AfD’s 152. US yields dropped off and the CME Federal Reserve (Fed) Futures are now favoring a 25 basis points (bps) rate cut in June, where last week odds were rather for no rate cut in June.
Meanwhile, traders will watch the US Gross Domestic Product (GBP) release for the fourth quarter of 2024 later this week. Given the recent slowdown in US activity and economic data (for example, the softer Services Purchase Managers Index (PMI) reading on Friday), another drop in US yields could be triggered, with markets anticipating the Federal Reserve lowering its monetary policy rate to boost the economy and demand. The US dollar weakened after several reports and economic data points last week revealed that US business activity slowed and consumer confidence waned, with expectations for inflation surging and markets pricing in more rate cuts by the Federal Reserve this year.
International News
GJEPC Auckland Visit Targets Growth In India-NZ Jewellery Trade
The Opportunity In New Zealand Is Significant Relative To The Current Level Of Jewellery Trade. India’s Gem and Jewellery Exports To New Zealand Rose 50.56% To US$25.46 Million In FY2025-26, From US$16.91 Million In FY2024-25.
The GJEPC trade delegation’s Auckland programme has highlighted the scope for expanding India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand as the two countries move towards implementing their recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The Auckland visit was part of GJEPC’s Australia and New Zealand trade delegation, held from 20-26 August 2026, with the delegation focused on connecting Indian manufacturers and exporters with buyers and industry stakeholders across the two markets.
The opportunity in New Zealand is significant relative to the current level of jewellery trade. India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand rose 50.56% to US$25.46 million in FY2025-26, from US$16.91 million in FY2024-25.
The recently concluded India-New Zealand FTA is expected to create further opportunities for Indian exporters. New Zealand has committed to duty-free access for Indian exports across 100% of its tariff lines once the agreement enters into force.
On 26th August, Vijay Mangukiya, Convener – International Events, GJEPC and leader of the delegation, met Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland. Mangukiya has said the delegation was aimed at bringing Indian manufacturers and exporters closer to buyers and industry stakeholders in both Australia and New Zealand, with the objective of identifying new business opportunities and developing long-term partnerships.
The delegation’s Auckland market visits covered a broad cross-section of the local jewellery sector, including Michael Hill, Wallace Bishop, Hardy Brothers, Prouds, and Partridge Jewellers. The delegation also observed international luxury and contemporary jewellery brands including Van Cleef & Arpels, Roberto Coin, Messika and FOPE, reflecting the competitive environment in which Indian exporters would be seeking to establish or expand relationships.
India’s exports of individual jewellery categories to New Zealand also recorded strong growth in FY2025-26. Gold jewellery exports rose 84% to US$17.47 million, while silver jewellery exports doubled to US$0.91 million. Lab-grown diamond exports rose 2% to US$0.63 million, and imitation jewellery increased 13.16% to US$0.43 million. Cut and polished diamond exports were US$5.76 million.
The figures underline the growing contribution of finished jewellery to India’s New Zealand business. With the FTA expected to improve market access and the Auckland market showing demand across gold, diamonds, coloured stones, pearls and branded jewellery, GJEPC’s delegation is seeking to convert this existing growth into deeper commercial relationships.
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