National News
Madhuri Dixit inaugurates 20000* sqft jewellery shopping destination for PNG Jewellers at Laxmi Road, Pune
Retail expansion in jewellery aligns with the consumer response in any given market. Phenomenal popularity and product demand call for unprecedented expansion, and one such instance was exhibited by PN Gadgil Jewellers, widely known for its commitment towards excellence across a legacy of 193 years of business and counting, with the launch of a new store besides renovation of its flagship showroom, both at Laxmi Road in Pune, on 23 March, 2025.
Catering to rising demand across all categories of gold, diamond, platinum, and colour gemstone jewellery in the Pune market, the two stores were jointly inaugurated by Bollywood diva Madhuri Dixit in the presence of Dr. Saurabh Gadgil, Chairman and Managing Director of PNG Jewellers; Mr. Parag Gadgil, and members of the PNG Jewellers family. The combined area of the two large-format stores now reach a staggering 20,000 sq. ft.*
Dr. Saurabh Gadgil, Chairman and Managing director of PNG Jewellers said, “Pune holds a special place in our hearts, as it is where our flagship store continues to stand as an example to our heritage and trust. Now, the brand has a total of 53 stores across the world. As we strive to strengthen our retail network further, this expansion brings us closer to our patrons, ensuring they have convenient access to the finest jewellery, steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. We look forward to serving the people of Pune with the same commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and trust.”
Ushering in a completely modern in-store experience while respecting Maharashtrian tradition, the renovated flagship showroom has been redesigned akin to heritage Wada courtyard houses intrinsic to the state. Exclusively retailing in gold jewellery of Kalkatti, temple, antique, and kundan designs, the flagship showroom specialises in bridal jewellery along with a dedicated wedding lounge replete with private make-up stations to give the brides-to-be the attention they deserve. The new 2-storey showroom, on the other hand, stands tall as a hub of the studded categories including diamond, platinum, uncut, polki, and precious colour gemstone jewellery. The expansion has now diversified the product range of PNG Jewellers by an impressive 30-40%, thus giving buyers across all categories better options for an immersive and satisfying shopping experience.
Commenting on the continuing legacy of the brand, ambassador and Bollywood superstar Madhuri Dixit said, “It is a privilege to be a part of this historic event with PNG Jewellers, a company known for its excellence and tradition. Their commitment to preserving tradition while embracing modern designs truly sets PNG Jewellers apart. PNG has always stood for trust, tradition, and timeless craftsmanship.”
The new store of PNG Jewellers is located 500 meters away from their flagship store, and has rolled out exclusive offers such as 0% deduction on old gold exchange, up to 40% off on gold jewellery-making charges, and up to 100% off on diamond jewellery-making charges respectively to celebrate the grand inauguration.
National News
Rapid Growth In Gold Loan Merits Continued Vigilance: RBI FSR
The Report Cautioned That A Prolonged Correction In Gold Prices Could Weaken Collateral Protection
The rapid growth in lending against gold collateral amid elevated gold price volatility merits continued vigilance, even as asset impairment risks remain contained and LTV (loan-to-value) ratios provide comfortable cushion, according to the RBI’s Financial Stability Report (FSR).
Since March 2024, gold loans have grown at a staggering 42.4% annually (CAGR). To put that into perspective, other non-housing retail loans only grew at about half that speed (23%). Overall, the gold loan portfolio of lenders rose 54.5 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) as of March-end 2026.
Both regular banks and NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) have been aggressively handing out these loans because gold prices have been so high. When gold is worth more, your gold jewelry can suddenly fetch you a much bigger loan.
FSR assessed that the recent increase in gold loans is driven primarily by existing borrowers, who are using higher gold prices to secure larger loans and roll over existing debt, as indicated by the gap between fresh originations and loan outstanding.
The report cautioned that a prolonged correction in gold prices could weaken collateral protection, increase borrower stress and result in higher delinquencies. Gold loans include agriculture gold loans that are offered against the collateral security of gold jewellery, ornaments and coins.
Right now, the situation is stable, and banks aren’t losing money yet. But the RBI is reminding lenders not to get blinded by the current gold rush. If gold prices take a tumble, a lot of these seemingly “safe” loans could turn into a major headache for the financial system.
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