International News
Namibia’s Finance Minister Calls for Economic Diversification as Diamond Sector Weakens
Minister Shafudah Foresees Modest Growth for 2025 Amid Diamond Revenue Decline and Urges Focus on Alternative Sectors

In her recent budget speech, Namibia’s Finance Minister, Ericah Shafudah, emphasized the urgent need for economic diversification as the country faces continued challenges in its diamond sector. She forecasted only 4.5% growth for 2025, a downward revision from the previously projected 5.4%. The diamond industry, which contributes about 10% of Namibia’s GDP, has been facing several headwinds, including weak global demand, particularly from key markets like China and the US, increased competition from Angola’s cheap rough supply, and the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds.
The slump in the diamond sector has had a significant impact on domestic activities, with total revenue from diamonds halving in 2024. Debmarine Namibia, the joint venture between De Beers and the Namibian government, reported a 38% decline in its revenue last year. This decline has been reflected in the country’s tax revenues, with Namibia’s Revenue Agency (NamRA) forecasting a reduction of NAD 6 billion (approximately USD 330 million) for 2025.
Minister Shafudah’s speech highlighted the urgent need for diversification, with Namibia possessing exceptional solar energy potential, along with opportunities for growth in tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. By focusing on these sectors, Namibia aims to reduce its reliance on diamonds and build a more resilient economy capable of withstanding fluctuations in global commodity markets.

International News
Gold continues upward march;Bank of America forecasts $5,000/oz for 2026

Gold prices in India saw a modest rise on Wednesday today Oct 15, mirroring an uptick in international markets as renewed US-China trade tensions and expectations of further US interest rate cuts bolstered demand for safe-haven assets.24k gold traded at Rs.1,28,360/10gm after gaining ₹10 in early trade, while silver prices increased by Rs.100 to Rs.1,89,100 per kilogram.
Gold prices surged to a record high of $4,179.48 per ounce on October 14, 2025. Investors flocked to safe-haven metals amid trade tensions and Fed rate-cut expectations. U.S. December gold futures jumped 57% year-to-date. Bank of America raised its 2026 gold forecast to $5,000 per ounce, warning of possible near-term corrections.
Gold prices soared to an unprecedented $4,179.48 per ounce on October 14, 2025, marking a historic milestone for the yellow metal. The rally comes as investors worldwide seek safety in hard assets amid a turbulent global economic backdrop marked by escalating trade tensions, slowing growth, and expectations of further interest rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve.
The sharp surge in bullion prices has been driven by a combination of macroeconomic uncertainty and aggressive monetary easing. As inflation pressures remain sticky and central banks pivot toward dovish policies, gold has reasserted its role as a hedge against both currency debasement and market volatility.
In futures trading, U.S. December gold contracts have skyrocketed nearly 57% so far this year, underscoring the strength of investor demand across both institutional and retail segments. Analysts note that central bank buying—particularly from emerging markets—has added further momentum to the rally, with several countries diversifying reserves away from the U.S. dollar.
Reflecting this bullish sentiment, Bank of America has raised its 2026 gold price forecast to $5,000 per ounce, citing continued monetary easing, geopolitical instability, and robust central bank accumulation. However, the bank also cautioned that short-term corrections are likely, given the rapid pace of the recent run-up and potential bouts of profit-taking.
Overall, gold’s meteoric rise underscores a broader shift toward safe-haven assets, as investors navigate a world increasingly defined by economic fragmentation, shifting interest rate cycles, and persistent geopolitical risks.
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