Core Insights - The gold jewelry market in China is experiencing a significant decline in demand, with a reported consumption of 278 tons in the first three quarters of 2025, representing a 25% year-on-year decrease [1] - Despite high international gold prices, retail companies in the gold jewelry sector are facing structural challenges, including a "store closure wave" and pressure on inventory management and profitability [1][4] - The pricing mechanism in the gold jewelry supply chain exposes retailers to risks due to price fluctuations, leading to a dual challenge of high prices reducing operational efficiency and suppressing consumer demand [2] Industry Performance - Major gold jewelry retailers, such as Chow Tai Fook and Luk Fook, have reported significant store closures, with Chow Tai Fook closing 296 stores and Chow Sang Sang reducing 333 stores in the first nine months of the year [1] - The retail sector is under pressure from high costs and low consumer demand, impacting profitability and operational strategies [1][4] Risk Management Strategies - A "laddered" risk management solution has been designed for gold jewelry retailers, incorporating put option protection strategies and zero-cost collar strategies to mitigate price fluctuation risks [2][3] - The put option strategy offers a safety net for retailers against price declines while allowing them to benefit from price increases, although it comes with high premium costs [2][3] - The zero-cost collar strategy provides downside protection while capping upside potential, allowing retailers to manage their financial exposure effectively without initial costs [3] Market Outlook - The gold market is expected to remain in a long-term bullish trend due to factors such as central bank purchases, geopolitical risks, and production cost support [2] - The industry is encouraged to explore market-based compensation mechanisms and innovative pricing models to adapt to the current economic environment [4]