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
Qatar launches Qatar Diamond Exchange
The New Exchange Combines Trading, Certification, Vaulting and Customs In One Regulated Ecosystem, Aiming To Attract International Diamond Businesses To Doha.
Qatar has launched the Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE), a new marketplace for rough and polished diamonds designed to connect Doha with international trading networks.
The new exchange combines trading, certification, vaulting and customs in one regulated ecosystem, aiming to attract international diamond businesses to Doha.
Developed by the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), the QDE brings together trading, membership, vaulting, certification, customs and industry services within a single regulated ecosystem. The exchange is designed to connect Doha with international diamond markets while supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country’s broader economic diversification strategy.
Membership is open to diamond traders, manufacturers, cutters, polishers, affiliated service providers and industry bodies. Members receive access to trading licences, independent valuation and assortment services, secure vaulting, specialist insurance, and free-zone incentives including 100% foreign ownership and 0% corporate tax for qualifying businesses.
Looking ahead, the exchange plans to host a calendar of rough and polished diamond tenders that will connect producers across Africa and Asia with buyers in Europe and the Gulf. By combining international regulatory standards with purpose-built infrastructure and investor-friendly policies, Qatar aims to establish Doha as a trusted gateway for the global diamond trade.
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