Global Markets Slide as AI, Crypto, and Precious Metals Face Heightened Volatility 
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South Korea Assures U.S. on Trade Deal Commitments Amid Tariff Concerns 
India–U.S. Interim Trade Pact Cuts Auto Tariffs but Leaves Tesla Out 
Fed Governor Lisa Cook Warns Inflation Risks Remain as Rates Stay Steady 
Thailand Inflation Remains Negative for 10th Straight Month in January 
Asian Stocks Slip as Tech Rout Deepens, Japan Steadies Ahead of Election 
Trump Signs Executive Order Threatening 25% Tariffs on Countries Trading With Iran 
China’s gold consumption fell 5.96% year-on-year to 290.492 tons in the first quarter of 2025, according to the China Gold Association, as high gold prices dampened demand for traditional jewellery. The surge in gold prices has shifted consumer behavior, with more buyers favoring gold bars and coins as investment vehicles rather than ornamental pieces.
Gold jewellery demand saw a sharp 26.85% decline compared to a year earlier, totaling 134.531 tons. In contrast, consumption of gold bars and coins jumped 29.81% to 138.018 tons, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid persistent geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.
Meanwhile, China's domestic gold production grew by 1.49% year-on-year to 87.243 tons in the first quarter. Including 53.587 tons of gold extracted from imported materials, the country's total gold output reached 140.830 tons, marking a 1.18% annual increase.
The shift toward gold investment products highlights growing concerns among Chinese consumers over global economic stability, prompting a move away from luxury purchases toward assets perceived as financial protection. Analysts expect this trend to continue if high gold prices and market volatility persist.
