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India's gold imports to plunge in December after record November

India's gold imports are poised for a sharp slowdown in December following record purchases in November, in the absence of any major festival and as rebounding costs trigger purchasers to postpone purchases, trade and federal government authorities said.

Lower imports by India, the world's second-biggest consumer of the rare-earth element, could top a rally in global prices that struck a record high in October. The drop in imports could also assist India narrow its trade deficit and support the ailing rupee.

Last month, imports shot up thanks to strong demand for financial investment and jewellery, Prithviraj Kothari, president of the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), stated.

And now, things are cooling down, and imports are slowing down. We might see a drop of over 50% in December.

Gold imports more than doubled in November compared to the previous month, reaching a record $14.8 billion, which broadened the trade deficit to a record level and pressed the rupee to an all-time low.

Lots of possible buyers had been awaiting gold rates to drop and rushed to make purchases as quickly as rates remedied in November, said a Mumbai-based dealership with a personal bullion importing bank.

Local rates decreased to 73,300 rupees ($ 863) per 10 grams in mid-November after hitting a record high of 79,775 rupees in October.

Prices have actually rebounded in December, which is discouraging purchasers and will likely result in imports falling dramatically to around $ 5 billion, the dealership stated.

So far this month, we have gotten less gold consignments for clearing compared to last month, said a customizeds authorities, who declined to be named.

Weak demand triggered Indian dealerships today to provide a. discount << XAU-IN-PREM > of up to $8 an ounce over official. domestic rates-- inclusive of 6% import and 3% sales levies. Last month, they were charging a premium of up to $16.

In November, financial investment demand was robust as bullion was. using better returns than the stock exchange, IBJA's Kothari. stated.

India's NSE Nifty 50 share index was up to 23,263.15. points in November, down 11% from a record high hit on Sept. 27.

Gold imports in November were likewise driven by joyful season. need, as jewellers intended to renew stocks following the. celebrations of Dussehra and Diwali, stated Amit Modak, chief. executive of PN Gadgil & & Sons, a jeweller.

(source: Reuters)