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
Gemfields revenue down 32% in 2025 revenue
Revenue plunges as ruby and emerald demand weakens amid operational disruptions
Colored precious stones miner Gemfields reported a 32% drop in 2025 revenue to $135.1 million as operational disruptions and weak demand for rubies and emeralds weighed on performance.
The company said EBITDA fell 85% to $6.2 million from $43.2 million, reflecting reduced production, fewer auctions and softer market conditions. Seven auctions generated $129 million during the year, as limited gemstone availability and uneven demand offset resilient pricing at the high end.
Operations at its Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique were hit by persistently low recovery of premium rubies and rising illegal mining activity. Two police officers were killed in October when illegal miners stormed the site. The company also flagged delays to its new $70 million processing plant, with commissioning now expected to run well into the first half of 2026, constraining near-term output despite production beginning in September 2025.
On the plus side, Gemfields said it had cut group operating costs by 17%. It also sold the iconic Faberge brand for $50 million to reduce mounting debts and raise working capital for expansion projects.
At the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, Gemfields suspended mining from January to May in response to weak auction results, softer global demand, particularly in China, and oversupply from a competing Zambian producer.
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