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WGC Gold ETF Commentary : US leads multiyear record inflows

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February in review 

Global physically-backed gold ETFs1 saw significant inflows in February totaling  US$9.4bn, the strongest since March 2022. North American flows  flipped positive following two consecutive monthly outflows, recording one of its  strongest months on record. Asian demand was also strong while European  inflows narrowed. We have now seen three consecutive months of strong global  inflows which, combined an upward trending gold price, have lifted total assets  under management (AUM) to US$306bn, another month-end peak. Meanwhile,  holdings rose to 3,353t, the highest month-end level since July 2023.

Highlights

  • Global gold ETFs saw continued  inflows during February as  holdings across all regions grew.
  • The third consecutive monthly inflows lifted global gold ETFs’ total  AUM and collective holdings by  4.1% and 3.1% respectively in the  month.
  • Global gold trading volumes kept  rising: OTC markets led the charge.

Regional overview  

North American demand surged in February, adding  US$6.8bn. This was the largest single month inflow for the  region since July 2020 and the strongest February ever. As  physical shipments into COMEX vaults from London and  other markets made headlines, the positive gold market momentum also benefited North American gold ETFs.  

But there were other important contributors. For instance,  US Treasury rates trended down with various economic  signals flashing red.3 Lower yields, alongside a weaker dollar,  boded well for the gold price during most of the month – in  fact, it reached nine new record highs in February before  moving lower in the latter half.4 We believe reduced opportunity costs and a record-shattering gold price were  key in attracting inflows. Moreover, a pullback in equity  markets and fears of stagflation were also likely positive  drivers of demand. Lastly, we have observed significant inflows triggered by gold ETFs’ options expiry, signalling  further bullish sentiment from investors.  

While we would not be surprised to see a slowdown in  momentum, ongoing recession concerns and policy  uncertainties – geopolitical and economic – will likely  continue to provide a supportive floor for demand. 

Gold trading volumes rise Trading activities across global gold markets increased in  February, ending the month at roughly US$300bn/day on  average. OTC trading, dominated by the LBMA, rose further, as dealers moved gold in response to the US tariff concerns.  Gold futures trading volumes at COMEX were down while  Shanghai Futures Exchange saw a sizable increase, given the  strong local gold price performance. Additionally, gold ETF  trading activities also rose, led by North America.

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International News

Ruling court nullifies Trump tariffs – AUGMONT BULLION REPORT

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  • Gold stabilizes in a range as a court decision overturns Trump’s tariffs, increasing risk appetite and depressing the greenback. After the U.S. Court of International Trade determined on Wednesday that Trump had overreached himself by using emergency powers to impose high tariffs on the majority of the nation’s trading partners, gold prices rose.
  • On Thursday, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis released its initial update on the country’s first-quarter economic growth. According to the agency, the US GDP decreased by 0.2% over that time, which was less than the 0.4% decline that was anticipated and less than the 0.3% decline that the bureau had initially projected.
  • While acknowledging certain stagflation concerns, policymakers pointed out that the Committee may have to make tough trade-offs if inflation turns out to be more persistent and growth and employment prospects deteriorate.

Technical Triggers  

  • Gold prices are expected to trade in the range of $3270 (~Rs 95000) and $3370 (~Rs 96400) in the near term. Either side breakout or breakdown will give 2-3% movement.
  • Silver prices are expected to trade in the range of $32.5(~Rs 96000) and $34(~Rs 99000) in the near term.

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International News

Swarovski Names Kolja Kiofsky as Chief Commercial Officer, Effective January 2026

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Swarovski has announced the promotion of Kolja Kiofsky to Chief Commercial Officer, effective January 2026. Currently serving as General Manager of North America, Kiofsky will take over from Michele Molon, who is set to depart in July 2025 for a new opportunity.

In his new role, Kiofsky will lead Swarovski’s global commercial operations, overseeing omni-channel strategy, global sales, commercial architecture, and real estate. He will relocate from New York to the company’s corporate headquarters in Männedorf, Switzerland, and report directly to CEO Alexis Nasard.

Kolja Kiofsky’s promotion to chief commercial officer marks an exciting new chapter for Swarovski. Kolja’s leadership and strategic vision have been pivotal in driving growth and transformation in North America,” said Nasard.

“At the same time, Swarovski extends its heartfelt gratitude to Michele Molon for his outstanding contributions and dedication to our company and brand. Michele leaves with a strong business and organizational legacy.”

Until Kiofsky assumes the role in January, Ilse Roeffen, Head of Emerging Markets and Businesses, will serve as interim Chief Commercial Officer.

Reacting to the announcement, Kiofsky said, “I’m incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of chief commercial officer after 15 amazing years with Swarovski. This company has been a huge part of my professional journey, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to contribute to its legacy of innovation, craftsmanship and excellence. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Michele Molon who has been not only a brilliant leader but also a true partner and mentor throughout the years. I look forward to building on the strong foundation he laid and driving our commercial strategy into its next phase.”

The promotion comes as Swarovski reported a 6% increase in revenue in 2024, reaching €1.906 billion—signaling strong momentum for the heritage crystal brand.

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International News

Anglo American Platinum rebrands as Valterra

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Anglo American Platinum Limited has officially rebranded as Valterra Platinum Limited, with trading under the new name commencing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on 28 May 2025.

The change marks a fresh chapter for one of South Africa’s leading platinum producers. Approved by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on 8 May, the rebrand was finalised following regulatory clearance from the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.

Valterra Platinum now trades under the JSE share code “VAL”, with the short name “Valterra” and ISIN ZAE000013181. The final day to trade under the Anglo American Platinum name was 27 May.

The record date for shareholders is 30 May, while account updates reflecting the new name will be completed by 2 June.The JSE debut under the Valterra name symbolises both continuity and a bold repositioning in the market, as the company looks to build on its legacy with a renewed brand identity.

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