Gold jewellery continues to see decline in exports due to 'sluggish' markets such as the Gulf. But experts say overall gems & jewellery exports could touch $41 billion in 2021-22.
Marriage and festive demand, and high inflation are pushing gold imports. Decline in interest rates on savings instruments, and equity market issues could boost this further.
The likelihood of financial distress caused by the 2nd wave is much higher & it could lead to more outright sales of gold, unlike in 2020, when people chose to take out loans against gold.
Newspapers are filled with ads of gold jewellery auction amid indications of economic distress faced by Indian households. But resurgence in gold prices could stem the auctions.
The growth in India is coming from the 18-35 year old cohort. Latest World Gold Council data indicates Indian adults under age 34 have less appetite for gold than older consumers.
RBI data shows a sharp increase in households borrowing against gold. Other indicators also show higher borrowing. More credit is fine, but vaccination needs priority.
Indians see West Asia as one uninterrupted wash of Islam, but the reality is more complex. For the Druze, support from Israel—where they are a recognised minority—is now critical.
Mini deal will likely see no cut in 10% baseline tariff on Indian exports announced by Trump on 2 April, it is learnt, but additional 26% tariffs are set to be reduced.
India-Russia JV is also racing to deliver 7,000 more AK-203 assault rifles by 15 Aug. These are currently being made with 50% indigenisation and this will surge to 100% by 31 December.
Public, loud, upfront, filled with impropriety and high praise sometimes laced with insults. This is what we call Trumplomacy. But the larger objective is the same: American supremacy.
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