– Gold Supplies in India Disappear Despite Continued Record Premiums (Liberty Blitzkrieg, Oct 30, 2013):
I first reported on record high gold premiums in India a couple of weeks ago. Since then, the story has become even more interesting as Reuters reports that gold supplies have completely dried up just ahead of major gold buying festivals and despite continued record premiums. While it is clear that Indians are finding a way to buy gold anyway via black markets, this is still a very interesting story to keep an eye on.
More from Reuters:
India has imposed several restrictions on imports of gold, the biggest non-essential import item, to curb a record trade deficit. Gold imports in September fell to 7 tonnes from 162 tonnes in May.
Of course, if additional demand wasn’t being met via black markets the price of gold would be far lower than it is.
“Still gold is not available, and they are charging $120-130 (an ounce) of premiums,” said Bachhraj Bamalwa, director with the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation.
Read moreGold Supplies In India Disappear Despite Continued Record Premiums