Latest news with #TrumpTariff
News18
08-08-2025
- Business
- News18
Tariff imposed by US may change very fast: Diamond certifying agency HRD Antwerp
Kolkata, Aug 8 (PTI) As uncertainty looms over the high tariff imposed by the US targeting Indian exports, including diamonds and jewellery, to America, Europe's leading diamond certification authority, HRD Antwerp, on Friday wondered about the longevity of such policies and expected them to change very fast. The agency, however, sees opportunity amid the turbulence and has expanded its India presence by opening a new office in Kolkata. Speaking on the sidelines of the launch event, Tom Neys, Global Marketing, Sales & Education Director at HRD Antwerp, said, 'It needs to be seen how long it continues. Policies like the Trump Tariff can change very fast, but if such high duties continue, exporters may begin rerouting their consignments from other markets to protect margins. He noted that HRD Antwerp is strongly positioned in Europe and the Middle East—regions that could become more attractive for Indian exporters seeking alternative destinations for exports of certified diamond jewellery. Industry voices have termed the tariff proposal as a 'doomsday" move for India's gems and jewellery sector, which relies heavily on exports. Local exporters believe that in this evolving trade scenario, certification will play a pivotal role in ensuring market access and consumer trust. 'Nearly 60 per cent of diamonds in India—whether loose or set in jewellery—remain uncertified. But that's changing with growing consumer awareness. Certification will only grow in importance," Neys said. Against this backdrop, HRD Antwerp inaugurated its new facility in Kolkata on Friday to cater to Eastern India's gem and jewellery sector. 'In this time of global uncertainty, HRD Antwerp's expansion to Kolkata demonstrates our long-term commitment to India," Neys said. The centre will offer grading and certification services for both natural and lab-grown diamonds, as well as finished jewellery. President of the Calcutta Gems and Jewellery Association, Ashok Bengani, said that the tariffs are not sustainable, and it seems to be a short-term concern which will get ironed out diplomatically. 'The presence of world-class certification services in Kolkata will empower local businesses and reinforce consumer confidence," Bengani Director of HRD Antwerp India, Ramakant Mitkar, said they currently operate major labs in Antwerp, Dubai, and Mumbai, with regional branches in Surat, Delhi, Jaipur, and now Kolkata. However, they will expand to Hyderabad and Bangalore by the end of this year. The move is expected to support exporters in navigating tighter global trade conditions while boosting Eastern India's standing in the global gems and jewellery market. PTI BSM NN view comments First Published: August 08, 2025, 16:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Standard
08-08-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
RBI Hits Pause on Rate Cut at 5.5%: Real Estate Set to Gain from Stable EMIs and Festive Demand
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], August 8: In a move widely anticipated by market watchers, the Reserve Bank of India has chosen to maintain the repo rate at 5.5%, following a cumulative 100 bps reduction over the past three Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings. For the real estate sector, this pause reinforces a climate of stability, keeping home loan EMIs unchanged and encouraging end-user confidence. With the festive season approaching and earlier rate cuts still transmitting into the system, developers look forward to seizing the opportunity to drive sales through flexible payment plans and festive incentives. A further cut in the coming quarters, if macroeconomic conditions permit, could act as an additional trigger for housing demand. Mr Manoj Gaur, CMD, Gaurs Group, says, "This status quo reflects a prudent and laudable step by the RBI, especially in light of current international dynamics, including the impact of the Trump Tariff. With inflation significantly below the RBI's target, the decision will definitely boost the economy and impart positive sentiment to the real estate sector, particularly at the onset of the festive season, a critical period for housing demand. We believe this consistency in policy will help strengthen buyer confidence and stimulate activity across the real estate landscape. It also enables developers to plan ahead with greater clarity, especially for integrated and long-term projects." Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group, says, "The two successive rate cuts resulting in a total reduction of 100 bps over the last six months, the RBI's stance to keep the repo rate steady at 5.5% is as per the realty sector's expectations. The move aligns with the central bank's cautious stance against the backdrop of global economic volatility. It is also noteworthy that the previous rate cuts significantly bolstered housing demand, with Tier-I cities recording residential sales worth Rs. 3.6 lakh crore in just the first half of 2025. Even though a slight reduction could have further fueled this growth, particularly benefiting affordable and mid-segment homebuyers. We look forward to a possible rate cut in the festive season as this would provide a timely push to housing demand, especially for first-time buyers and budget-conscious investors." Adish Oswal, Chairman, Oswal Group, says, "The RBI's decision to hold the repo rate steady at 5.5% reinforces economic stability while continuing to support the housing sector. The cumulative 1% reduction since February has already improved liquidity, enabling developers to fast-track launches and project deliveries. Meanwhile, the firm reductions in home loan rates are gradually boosting affordability, especially for first-time buyers. Together, these factors are expected to fuel fresh momentum in the real estate market and pave the way for sustained growth in the months ahead." Sandeep Chhillar, Founder and Chairman, Landmark Group, says, "The RBI sustaining the status quo marks a strong pro-growth signal and undoubtedly benefits the real estate sector. With home loan rates likely to fall further, affordability will improve, especially for first-time homebuyers. This move is expected to reignite demand, sustain buyer interest, and create a favorable environment for continued growth across the housing market." Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, says, "The announcement by the RBI to hit the pause button after a 100-bps rate cut in the last 6 months will bring cheers to the sector. At 5.50% the home loan continues to be affordable, and given the fact that the festive season is merely two months away, it will boost the market's prospects and lead to the real estate sector's growth." Mr. Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, says, "As anticipated, the RBI's decision to maintain the status quo and keep the stance neutral signals continued confidence in India's economic growth story. This decisive move is set to unlock greater capital inflows, especially into high-impact sectors like real estate. Notably, the commercial segment is seeing renewed traction. This would allow ongoing projects to proceed without repricing risks. For occupiers and developers, predictability in the financial environment signifies stability and is always welcome." Pankaj Jain, Founder & CMD, SPJ Group, says, "In the midst of global economic uncertainties and recent tariff escalations, the RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.5% signals a measured and prudent approach to sustaining economic momentum. While a rate cut would have further boosted home loan affordability, the current stability still bodes well for the real estate sector--especially luxury housing, where demand remains robust. With borrowing costs steady, both end-users and investors can plan confidently, and developers are likely to continue exploring untapped micro-markets. This move reinforces policy consistency and supports ongoing recovery across the sector while contributing to broader macroeconomic resilience." Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group, says the RBI's decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% injects optimism amid economic uncertainty. Setting a positive tone for the real estate sector, this will continue to ease the homebuying process, enhancing home loan affordability and supporting demand across the segments. We see this announcement as a positive push toward a broader recovery in real estate and the economy at large. Saurabh Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, says, "The RBI's decision to hold the repo rate steady supports buyer confidence and keeps home loan EMIs stable. In Gurugram, demand remains strong, particularly in the mid and premium segments. While the recently proposed circle rate hikes may impact pricing in select pockets, overall market sentiment is upbeat and growth momentum continues. Stable rates will further drive residential demand and encourage developers to bring new projects aligned with evolving buyer preferences." Ajay Tyagi, Chief Sales Officer, Better Choice Realtors, says, "Given global economic uncertainties, the RBI keeping the repo rate at 5.5% sends a strong message of authorities being considerate towards real estate. This move will encourage borrowing, prompting more individuals to invest in property purchases and driving demand in the housing sector, especially amid the recently imposed U.S. tariffs."
Fashion Value Chain
07-08-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
RBI Hits Pause on Rate Cut at 5.5%: Real Estate Set to Gain from Stable EMIs and Festive Demand
In a move widely anticipated by market watchers, the Reserve Bank of India has chosen to maintain the repo rate at 5.5%, following a cumulative 100 bps reduction over the past three Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings. For the real estate sector, this pause reinforces a climate of stability, keeping home loan EMIs unchanged and encouraging end-user confidence. With the festive season approaching and earlier rate cuts still transmitting into the system, developers look forward to seizing the opportunity to drive sales through flexible payment plans and festive incentives. A further cut in the coming quarters, if macroeconomic conditions permit, could act as an additional trigger for housing demand. RBI Holds Repo Rate Steady at 5.5% Mr Manoj Gaur, CMD, Gaurs Group, says, 'This status quo reflects a prudent and laudable step by the RBI, especially in light of current international dynamics, including the impact of the Trump Tariff. With inflation significantly below the RBI's target, the decision will definitely boost the economy and impart positive sentiment to the real estate sector, particularly at the onset of the festive season, a critical period for housing demand. We believe this consistency in policy will help strengthen buyer confidence and stimulate activity across the real estate landscape. It also enables developers to plan ahead with greater clarity, especially for integrated and long-term projects.' Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group, says, 'The two successive rate cuts resulting in a total reduction of 100 bps over the last six months, the RBIs stance to keep the repo rate steady at 5.5% is as per the realty sectors expectations. The move aligns with the central bank's cautious stance against the backdrop of global economic volatility. It is also noteworthy that the previous rate cuts significantly bolstered housing demand, with Tier-I cities recording residential sales worth Rs. 3.6 lakh crore in just the first half of 2025. Even though a slight reduction could have further fueled this growth, particularly benefiting affordable and mid-segment homebuyers. We look forward to a possible rate cut in the festive season as this would provide a timely push to housing demand, especially for first-time buyers and budget-conscious investors.' Adish Oswal, Chairman, Oswal Group, says, 'The RBI's decision to hold the repo rate steady at 5.5% reinforces economic stability while continuing to support the housing sector. The cumulative 1% reduction since February has already improved liquidity, enabling developers to fast-track launches and project deliveries. Meanwhile, the firm reductions in home loan rates are gradually boosting affordability, especially for first-time buyers. Together, these factors are expected to fuel fresh momentum in the real estate market and pave the way for sustained growth in the months ahead.' Sandeep Chhillar, Founder and Chairman, Landmark Group, says, 'The RBI sustaining the status quo marks a strong pro-growth signal and undoubtedly benefits the real estate sector. With home loan rates likely to fall further, affordability will improve, especially for first-time homebuyers. This move is expected to reignite demand, sustain buyer interest, and create a favorable environment for continued growth across the housing market.' Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, says, 'The announcement by the RBI to hit the pause button after a 100-bps rate cut in the last 6 months will bring cheers to the sector. At 5.50% the home loan continues to be affordable, and given the fact that the festive season is merely two months away, it will boost the markets prospects and lead to the real estate sectors growth.' Mr. Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, says, 'As anticipated, the RBI's decision to maintain the status quo and keep the stance neutral signals continued confidence in India's economic growth story. This decisive move is set to unlock greater capital inflows, especially into high-impact sectors like real estate. Notably, the commercial segment is seeing renewed traction. This would allow ongoing projects to proceed without repricing risks. For occupiers and developers, predictability in the financial environment signifies stability and is always welcome.' Pankaj Jain, Founder & CMD, SPJ Group, says, 'In the midst of global economic uncertainties and recent tariff escalations, the RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.5% signals a measured and prudent approach to sustaining economic momentum. While a rate cut would have further boosted home loan affordability, the current stability still bodes well for the real estate sector-especially luxury housing, where demand remains robust. With borrowing costs steady, both end-users and investors can plan confidently, and developers are likely to continue exploring untapped micro-markets. This move reinforces policy consistency and supports ongoing recovery across the sector while contributing to broader macroeconomic resilience.' Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group, says the RBI's decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% injects optimism amid economic uncertainty. Setting a positive tone for the real estate sector, this will continue to ease the homebuying process, enhancing home loan affordability and supporting demand across the segments. We see this announcement as a positive push toward a broader recovery in real estate and the economy at large. Saurabh Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, says, 'The RBI's decision to hold the repo rate steady supports buyer confidence and keeps home loan EMIs stable. In Gurugram, demand remains strong, particularly in the mid and premium segments. While the recently proposed circle rate hikes may impact pricing in select pockets, overall market sentiment is upbeat and growth momentum continues. Stable rates will further drive residential demand and encourage developers to bring new projects aligned with evolving buyer preferences.' Ajay Tyagi, Chief Sales Officer, Better Choice Realtors, says, 'Given global economic uncertainties, the RBI keeping the repo rate at 5.5% sends a strong message of authorities being considerate towards real estate. This move will encourage borrowing, prompting more individuals to invest in property purchases and driving demand in the housing sector, especially amid the recently imposed U.S. tariffs.'
Time of India
06-08-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Trump's higher tariff threat on India: What RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra said on GDP growth; 'really very difficult to...'
US President Donald Trump has issued a warning about increasing tariffs on India beyond the current 25%. (AI image) RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra on Wednesday indicated that it is difficult to predict the impact of the tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration on India. The RBI-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% in today's monetary policy review. The central bank has also retained the GDP growth forecast at 6.5% for fiscal year 2025-26. Asked about the impact of US tariffs on India's GDP growth, Sanjay Malhotra said, 'On growth, you are very well aware that we had already reduced our forecast, which was earlier, 6.7% to 6.5% so some of the global uncertainties have already been factored in the revised growth forecast.' 'However, there is still a lot of uncertainty, as was also mentioned in my statement and it's really very difficult to predict as to what the impact will be. Going forward, as we have mentioned, we will maintain a very, very close vigil on the incoming data and take a call as of now, we do not have sufficient data to revise our GDP forecasts,' Malhotra said when asked about the Indian economy's outlook if the 25% tariff stays, or is even raised. Also Read | 'Will raise tariff substantially in 24 hours': Donald Trump fires fresh salvo; says India 'not good trading partner' Talking about the evolving global economic situation, the RBI governor said, 'We will continue to monitor our macroeconomic conditions on a policy to policy basis, and accordingly take a call. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These Photos Captured the Exact Wrong Moment Read More Undo It's all very, very uncertain. We already did a 100 basis point rate cut. The other thing is that monetary policy transmission is still happening. We will continue to do whatever is required to facilitate good growth while, of course, maintaining price stability. ' Asked about India-US trade deal talks, he said, "Of course, trade negotiations as we'll continue, we are hopeful that we will have, you know, an amicable solution." RBI retains GDP growth forecast despite Trump Tariff threat Earlier today, in his monetary policy statement, RBI governor said, 'Growth is robust and as per earlier projections though below our aspirations. The uncertainties of tariffs are still evolving. Monetary policy transmission is continuing. The impact of the 100 bps rate cut since February 2025 on the economy is still unfolding.' 'The supportive monetary, regulatory and fiscal policies including robust government capital expenditure should also boost demand. With sustained growth in construction and trade segments, the services sector is expected to remain buoyant in the coming months. Prospects of external demand, however, remain uncertain amidst ongoing tariff announcements and trade negotiations,' he said. 'The headwinds emanating from prolonged geopolitical tensions, persisting global uncertainties, and volatility in global financial markets pose risks to the growth outlook. Taking all these factors into account, real GDP growth for 2025- 26 is projected at 6.5%, with Q1 at 6.5%, Q2 at 6.7%, Q3 at 6.6%, and Q4 at 6.3%. Real GDP growth for Q1:2026-27 is projected at 6.6%. The risks are evenly balanced,' he said. Also Read | Amidst Donald Trump's tariff threats, India plans big! Rs 20,000 crore project being readied for exporters; 'Brand India' to be promoted Donald Trump's '24 hour' warning US President Donald Trump has issued a warning about increasing tariffs on India beyond the current 25%. In an interview on Tuesday, Trump indicated that within the next 24 hours, the US would likely implement a significant increase in tariffs on India, citing its Russian crude oil purchases and unwillingness to cease these imports. The Trump administration's officials have alleged that India is contributing to the funding of Russia's Ukrainian conflict through its continued crude oil imports. "India has not been a good trading partner, because they do a lot of business with us, but we don't do business with them. So we settled on 25 percent but I think I'm going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours, because they're buying Russian oil," he said in an interview with CNBC. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays .
Yahoo
25-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gold's Roller Coaster Week Ends With Fed, Trade Jitters
Happy Friday, traders. Welcome to our weekly market wrap, where we take a look back at these last five trading days with a focus on the market news, economic data and headlines that had the most impact on gold prices and other key correlated assets— and may continue to in the future. Here's what you need to know: Gold briefly soared above $3400/oz Tuesday before retreating, highlighting market volatility in the absence of hard economic data. Markets initially responded to tariff pullback rumors with optimism, pushing gold higher, but risk-on sentiment took over midweek. Despite Fed rate cut speculation, gold closed down 0.3% WoW, showing trader preference for equity risk amid trade thaw talk. Next week's GDP, jobs data, and the FOMC decision could bring the volatility back, setting gold's next direction. So, What Kind of a Week Has it Been? Not only has this been a week with very little in the way of macroeconomic data critical to pricing trends for gold or for correlated classes like the US Dollar (even the 'most important' data set of the week—initial jobless claims—landed within touching distance of expectations and with a yawn—our snoozer of a week has fallen in the dead of summer, where there's rarely any tangible, traditional market action to trade off of. As a result, we've been able to track how gold trades in a vacuum, save for the ongoing narratives of the Trump Tariff strategy for trade and the ongoing effort to predict when the FOMC will cut interest rates. This week, that track looks like a roller coaster. Tuesday's Surge Above $3400 With no concrete events or data reports to map to the yellow metal's movement, it's been a week of waves that include one surprisingly high crest, and a few troughs that briefly threatened gold's recent lines of support. Where gold rose to its peak of the week (spending roughly 24 hours, including all of Tuesday's New York trading session, well above $3400/oz), headlines and other vectors for the market's narrative and mood painted a picture of expectations for the Trump Administration, whether they got what they 'wanted' or not, pumping the brakes on recent threats to enact tariffs and duties of as much as 50% on some of the US' most important trade partners. At the time, and even into Wednesday morning's trading which eventually saw a quick sell-off, one thing we inferred from this was that the market saw improving economic stability in the US as such a promising sign that the Fed could begin cutting interest rates again sooner, that investors and managers chose to trade that projection rather than simply trading based on a reduced chance of economic calamity and recession (which we would have expected to push gold prices lower in favor of risk assets). Midweek Sell-Off Undermines Rally The fact, of course, that on Friday gold looks poised to close the week with a loss of roughly $10/oz and -0.3% WoW makes a considerable argument that this was not the case. Or, at least, that it wasn't the final act. The sell-off that began early on Wednesday has continued, for the most part, through the run-up to the week's close. True, the US President had more opportunities for public comment on ongoing 'trade negotiations' later in the week and peppered among them graver threats of punishingly high tariff rates beginning in August, but the marketplace now seems much less willing to be convinced this could happen, and so the general risk-on mood has persisted. At the same time, though certainly not from any definitive sources (given the FOMC's pre-meeting blackout period), the murmurs that the Fed may be ready to begin lowering interest rates again (possible as soon as next week?) have become louder. Backgrounded by these two competing narratives—greater economic optimism and risk-appetite, which remains a sell-signal for gold, vs. the implication of lower interest rates landing sooner than later, which has lent a tailwind to the yellow metal's prices for much of 2024 and 2025—gold prices have moved markedly lower. Although traders continue to seem eager to support the precious metal above $3325/oz. What's Coming Next Week Next week, as we close out July 2025, we will try to apply what we've observed; mainly that the market is much more keen to celebrate the idea of a more stable economic and trade environment than it is to bite (again) on expectations of lower rates. But we will be putting that knowledge to use in a much more hectic trading and macro backdrop, with the key reports ahead of us including the July Jobs Report, a first estimate of Q2 GDP growth, and a Fed decision on Wednesday. In the meantime, traders, I hope you can get out and safely enjoy your weekend for the next couple of days. After that, I'll see you back here next week for another market recap.
