Core Viewpoint - The international gold market has experienced significant volatility, with a notable drop in prices following a series of record highs, leading to varied responses in investment and consumer behavior [1] Group 1: Market Trends - As of October 21, the international spot gold price fell sharply by 6.3%, marking the largest single-day decline since April 2013 [1] - On October 22, gold prices further declined, approaching the $4000 per ounce mark [1] - The fluctuation in gold prices has triggered a chain reaction in both investment and consumer markets, with online gold stores preparing for the upcoming "Double Eleven" shopping festival [1] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Major brands continue to price gold jewelry at high levels, with prices for mainstream brands like Chow Tai Fook at 1223 CNY per gram and other brands similarly priced [2] - Brand representatives indicate that significant price adjustments are unlikely until there is a sustained downward trend in gold prices [2] - Consumers are finding opportunities for better deals online during the "Double Eleven" event, with platforms offering exclusive coupons for gold purchases [2] Group 3: Regulatory and Quality Standards - The purity labeling of gold has been standardized, with the national standard stating that gold content must be no less than 990‰ to be labeled as "foot gold" [4] - The previous terms like "thousand-foot gold" and "ten-thousand-foot gold" have been eliminated to prevent price inflation based on purity claims [4] Group 4: Secondary Market Activity - The second-hand market for gold is becoming increasingly active, with users listing gold jewelry for resale on platforms like Xianyu [4] - Some sellers are pricing second-hand items above official retail prices, which may be due to supply shortages in brand stores [4][15] - The wholesale market in Shenzhen shows a significant price difference, with gold priced at 936 CNY per gram, reflecting a 40% increase since January [15] Group 5: Investment Market Dynamics - There is a noticeable divergence in the investment market, with long-term investors seeing substantial gains while short-term traders face losses [16] - Long-term investors, such as those in hedge funds, maintain a positive outlook on gold despite recent price corrections, citing ongoing factors like de-dollarization and inflation expectations [16] - Short-term investors are experiencing pressure from recent declines, with many choosing to hold their positions rather than sell at a loss [18]

Getting emerging market exposure is a viable option in the current market environment. That's especially so given the global de-dollarization and prospect of further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. ...