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
Diamond Price Gains In Sept Led By Small, High-Quality Stones
US Retail Demand Strengthened, Particularly For 1–2 Ct (F–I, VS2–SI2) and 2+ Ct Stones. Lower-Quality Smaller Goods Remain Under Pressure From Lab-Grown Diamond Competition.
Diamond prices continued their upward trajectory in September—traditionally a slow month—driven by reduced production and rising demand. Round diamonds consistently outperformed fancy shapes.
US Market & Trading Sentiment: US retail demand strengthened, particularly for 1–2 ct (F–I, VS2–SI2) and 2+ ct stones. Lower-quality smaller goods remain under pressure from lab-grown diamond competition. Holidays in the US, Belgium, Israel, and India temporarily slowed regional trading.
Trade Show Trends (Hong Kong JGW): Show results were mixed: strong demand for finished jewelry and 2+ ct natural diamonds offset weak interest from Chinese buyers and sluggish movement in smaller, low-clarity goods.
Corporate & Supply Restructuring:
- De Beers is set to acquire Mountain Province’s 49% stake in the Gahcho Kué mine under a debt-restructuring agreement.
- Anglo American’s ongoing process to sell De Beers maintains broad market uncertainty, while recent De Beers rough sights indicate cautious buying.
- Petra Diamonds is evaluating strategic options, including potential asset sales.
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