National News
Madonna Sebastian Becomes Brand Ambassador for Kevabox, Inaugurates New Store in Kochi
Actress and singer celebrates womanhood as she unveils the latest Kevabox store in Forum Kochi, Kerala
In a stunning collaboration, actress and singer Madonna Sebastian has been named the brand ambassador for Kevabox, the modern jewelry brand that is taking the Indian jewelry market by storm. Sebastian inaugurated the new Kevabox store at Forum Kochi, Kerala, in February 2025, marking an exciting chapter for both the actress and the brand.
Sebastian, who is well-known for her versatile roles in South Indian cinema and her captivating musical talents, joins hands with Kevabox, a sub-brand of City Gold and Diamonds. Kevabox has quickly earned its place as India’s fifth largest lightweight jewelry brand, known for its exquisite designs and innovative approach.
The brand’s popular “For the Women” collection, which was celebrated during the store opening, beautifully honors the essence of womanhood. With pieces designed for women and their loved ones, Kevabox has established itself as a go-to choice for those seeking timeless yet modern jewelry.
Kevabox, which also offers online shopping for its customers, currently has stores in Calicut, Kochi, Bangalore, and Mangalore. Customers can easily get in touch with the brand for further details and to explore their extensive collection.
As the brand ambassador, Madonna Sebastian will play a key role in promoting the elegance, strength, and beauty that Kevabox jewelry represents.
National News
Smuggled Gold Distorting India’s Bullion Market
Sharp Rise In Smuggled Gold, Driven Largely By The May 2026 Hike In Import Duty To 15%, Which Has Made The Grey Market Significantly Cheaper Than Legal Channels and Squeezed Legitimate Dealers and Jewellers
India’s bullion market is being skewed by a sharp rise in smuggled gold, driven largely by the May 2026 hike in import duty to 15%, which has made the grey market significantly cheaper than legal channels and squeezed legitimate dealers and jewellers.
Market distortion and price gap
- Smuggled gold is now selling at discounts of up to Rs 8,000 per 10 grams compared with official prices, creating a wide arbitrage that undercuts compliant traders.
- Industry executives warn that this price gap is a clear signal of an active grey market, disadvantaging genuine bullion dealers and organised jewellers who pay full duty and taxes.
Scale of illegal inflows
- Industry estimates suggest more than 100 tonnes of gold could enter India through illegal channels in 2026, echoing past surges in smuggling after earlier duty hikes.
- Despite the higher tariff, India’s gold import bill rose 24% to a record $71.9 billion in FY26, even as physical volumes fell to about 721 tonnes, indicating persistent demand being met partly via unofficial routes.
Enforcement response
- Revenue intelligence agencies, particularly the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), have intensified operations against organised smuggling networks using airports, land borders, coastal routes and domestic road transport
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