International News
Zambia Lifts 15% Export Duty on Precious Gemstones
Gemfields Group Limited has expressed strong support for the Zambian government’s decision to suspend the 15% export duty on precious gemstones and metals, a move expected to significantly boost the country’s emerald industry. The suspension, announced by Zambia’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, is effective immediately, meaning the duty will no longer apply to emeralds mined by Kagem Mining Limited. The company is majority-owned by Gemfields (75%) with the remaining 25% held by Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation.
Gemfields CEO, Sean Gilbertson, lauded the government’s swift action, stating, “We express our sincere thanks to President Hakainde Hichilema’s government for their prompt and impressive action in addressing the 15% export duty on precious gemstones. The Zambian emerald sector has experienced exceptional growth over the past 16 years and is now the world’s largest emerald exporter. This decision signals a clear commitment to fostering growth and job creation in Zambia, putting our industry back on track for continued success.”
International News
US Spot Gold Rebounds Above $4,700
Gold prices in the U.S. have moved back above $4,700 per ounce, with spot gold trading near $4,750 on Thursday, May 7, 2026. This marks a gain of over 1% in a single day, following its strongest rise in more than five weeks on Wednesday.
Although gold is still around 15% below its record high of nearly $5,595 per ounce, reached in January 2026, prices remain much higher than the $4,300–$4,400 support range seen during the market decline in late March.
Gold has been trading in a narrow range since the Iran conflict began in late February. During that period, prices dropped by more than 10% as rising oil prices increased inflation concerns, forcing the U.S. Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged and pushing Treasury yields higher.
Now, market conditions are changing. Oil prices are easing, bond yields are falling, and investors are returning to gold, making it more attractive again.
Three main factors are supporting the recent rise in gold prices:
1. Falling U.S. Treasury yields:
The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond has dropped from around 4.4%, reducing the cost of holding gold. Since gold does not pay interest, lower bond yields make it a more attractive investment.
2. A weaker U.S. dollar:
A softer dollar generally helps gold prices, as it makes gold cheaper for buyers using other currencies.
3. Optimism over U.S.–Iran talks:
Renewed hopes of diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran have improved market sentiment, adding support to gold prices.
With Treasury yields easing and inflation fears cooling, one of the biggest pressures on gold since March is beginning to fade.
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