Finance Insights’ Post

Team Nako Timepieces had an opportunity to knowledge-share with some of Botswana’s academic and business leaders at the just-ended School of Business and Leisure (SBL) and the School of Post Graduate Studies (SPGS) at the Botswana Accountancy College: Sustainable Global Economic Recovery and Resilience from Crises Through Knowledge Based, Innovative and Creative Initiatives Conference. We presented empirical research results and discussed research findings of a study entitled: Driving the African Mineral Development Agenda; Design Innovation (#jewellerydesign and #watchmaking) as Competitive Strategies for Value Addition to Africa’s Precious Stones and Coloured Gemstones. The research was inspired and influenced by the learning outcomes of the 2023 African Union (#AU), African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC) (CC: Dr Marit Y. Kitaw, Mkhululi N Ncube and Thuso Mogae), Africa Gem Jewellery Exhibition and Conference (#AGJEC) and it discusses empirical research findings of a case study; A design innovation project; conducted by Nako Timepieces, in partnership with Okavango Diamond Company: an African mineral development recovery plan that suggests and promotes design as a competitive strategy for value-addition to Africa’s precious stones and varied coloured gemstones. The Botswana🇧🇼case was examined to investigate the configuration of her design innovation ecosystem in a national context — tailored to meet this study’s criteria: #I, Driving the African mineral development agenda; #II, Value-addition to Africa’s precious stones and varied coloured gemstones through design; #III, All this undertaken and performed by locals, and led by stakeholders in the Botswan🇧🇼diamond ecosystem. CC: Serty Leburu, Tebogo Magang, Dr. Derek Watson, douglas letsholathebe PhD, Peter M. Choto, Dr Lelokwane L. Mokgalo, Neo Nwako, Nkaelang Matenge, Batanani Nkhumaisang, Oaitse Gabadirwe, Mmilana Mongwa-Tefo, Nametsegang Motshegwa, Naledi Moyo (PhD), Joseph Kuruneri MSc, MCIPS, Dr. Marian Taimu, Roland Moyo, Tsitsi Chipfuva, Olivia Nthoi., Faith Samkange, Vuyo Mfazi, Unity Nyakudya, JOHN MUKUNA, Nkosinathi Mpofu (PhD), Dr. Gwinyai. Mercy (Manhotoma )Musikavanhu PhD, (FHEA), MSc, BTech., Bongiwe Magocha, Refilwe Tlamelo, Seun Kolade University of Sunderland, University of Derby, Sheffield Hallam University, Botswana Housing Corporation, Cresta Hotels, African Union. #pushabw #innovation #diamond #botswanatourism #odc #diamonds #ilovebotswana #watch #botswanaaccountancycollege #gemstones #BW

Arguably, Africa is a key producer of #preciousstones and #colouredgemstones, which are highly sought after in the jewellery and watchmaking industries. Unfortunately, the continent remains an exporter of raw minerals — with minimal efforts on value-addition, and as such, African countries do not benefit from gemstones as finished products.  A call of action to accelerate strategies for value addition to Africa’s precious stones and coloured gemstones: to place #ideas, #knowledge and #innovation at centre stage. As a recovery measure, design stands as an alternative development strategy, and many governments are focusing on strengthening their efforts to harness local design capabilities.  As both a framework and an artefact — design contributes enormous #strategies, #services, #systems, #products and #research activities, to gain a competitive advantage. In developing Africa’s mineral value chain, design facilitates manufacturing: the development of products: #jewellery and #watches, and it plays a critical role in the establishment and communication of brands and retail industries... Presented at the just-ended School of Business and Leisure (SBL) and the School of Post Graduate Studies (SPGS) at the Botswana Accountancy College: Sustainable Global Economic Recovery and Resilience from Crises Through Knowledge Based, Innovative and Creative Initiatives Conference.  The research emphasised the importance of design-driven innovation in driving the African mineral development agenda, enhancing her global competitiveness and developing her gemstone and jewellery chains.  CC: Serty Leburu, Tebogo Magang, Dr. Derek Watson, douglas letsholathebe PhD, Peter M. Choto, Dr Lelokwane L. Mokgalo, Neo Nwako, Nkaelang Matenge, Batanani Nkhumaisang, Oaitse Gabadirwe, Mmilana Mongwa-Tefo, Tebo Motlhaping, Nametsegang Motshegwa, Naledi Moyo (PhD), Joseph Kuruneri MSc, MCIPS, Dr. Marian Taimu, Roland Moyo, Tsitsi Chipfuva, Olivia Nthoi., Faith Samkange, Tinotenda Douglas Hwara, Vuyo Mfazi, Gaolatlhe Medupe FCIPS Chartered, Unity Nyakudya, JOHN MUKUNA, Nkosinathi Mpofu (PhD), Boganamang, Dibuseng, Dr. Gwinyai. Mercy (Manhotoma )Musikavanhu PhD, (FHEA), MSc, BTech., Monei Nthebolan, Bongiwe Magocha, Refilwe Tlamelo, Seun Kolade University of Sunderland, University of Derby, Sheffield Hallam University, Botswana Housing Corporation, Cresta Hotels, African Union. #pushabw #innovation #diamond #botswanatourism #odc #diamonds #ilovebotswana #watch #botswanaaccountancycollege #gemstones #BW

Arguably, Africa is a key producer of #preciousstones and #colouredgemstones, which are highly sought after in the jewellery and watchmaking industries. Unfortunately, the continent remains an exporter of raw minerals — with minimal efforts on value-addition, and as such, African countries do not benefit from gemstones as finished products.  A call of action to accelerate strategies for value addition to Africa’s precious stones and coloured gemstones: to place #ideas, #knowledge and #innovation at centre stage. As a recovery measure, design stands as an alternative development strategy, and many governments are focusing on strengthening their efforts to harness local design capabilities.  As both a framework and an artefact — design contributes enormous #strategies, #services, #systems, #products and #research activities, to gain a competitive advantage. In developing Africa’s mineral value chain, design facilitates manufacturing: the development of products: #jewellery and #watches, and it plays a critical role in the establishment and communication of brands and retail industries... Presented at the just-ended School of Business and Leisure (SBL) and the School of Post Graduate Studies (SPGS) at the Botswana Accountancy College: Sustainable Global Economic Recovery and Resilience from Crises Through Knowledge Based, Innovative and Creative Initiatives Conference.  The research emphasised the importance of design-driven innovation in driving the African mineral development agenda, enhancing her global competitiveness and developing her gemstone and jewellery chains.  CC: Serty Leburu, Tebogo Magang, Dr. Derek Watson, douglas letsholathebe PhD, Peter M. Choto, Dr Lelokwane L. Mokgalo, Neo Nwako, Nkaelang Matenge, Batanani Nkhumaisang, Oaitse Gabadirwe, Mmilana Mongwa-Tefo, Tebo Motlhaping, Nametsegang Motshegwa, Naledi Moyo (PhD), Joseph Kuruneri MSc, MCIPS, Dr. Marian Taimu, Roland Moyo, Tsitsi Chipfuva, Olivia Nthoi., Faith Samkange, Tinotenda Douglas Hwara, Vuyo Mfazi, Gaolatlhe Medupe FCIPS Chartered, Unity Nyakudya, JOHN MUKUNA, Nkosinathi Mpofu (PhD), Boganamang, Dibuseng, Dr. Gwinyai. Mercy (Manhotoma )Musikavanhu PhD, (FHEA), MSc, BTech., Monei Nthebolan, Bongiwe Magocha, Refilwe Tlamelo, Seun Kolade University of Sunderland, University of Derby, Sheffield Hallam University, Botswana Housing Corporation, Cresta Hotels, African Union. #pushabw #innovation #diamond #botswanatourism #odc #diamonds #ilovebotswana #watch #botswanaaccountancycollege #gemstones #BW

🍁 Gold leaf beating in Kanazawa has roots in the late 16th century under Maeda Toshiie, experienced interruptions during the Edo period, and saw a revival by the 1840s. After the Meiji Restoration, production increased but faced quality challenges, leading to the formation of a trade association in 1888. Innovations in the early 20th century enhanced efficiency, although World War II impacted the industry. Post-war demand, especially during the Korean War, renewed interest in gold leaf production. Today, the Kanazawa Gold Leaf Traditional Technique Preservation Society upholds traditional methods, and "Kanazawa foil" has been recognized as a traditional craft since 1977. This artisanal practice, which includes alloying gold and hammering it into ultra-thin sheets, is essential for adorning cultural landmarks and is celebrated for its historical significance, dating back to ancient techniques from Egypt. Currently, Kanazawa produces nearly all of Japan's gold leaf, with only a few skilled artisans continuing the craft.

I'm deeply invested in unlocking the full potential of our nation's most precious resource. While the motivations behind the G-7's actions may vary, for Botswana, diamonds are not just glittering gems—they represent our economic backbone and a pathway to prosperity. To revolutionize our diamond sector, we must reimagine its structure, drawing inspiration from successful models like the NDB bank. Imagine a Botswana brand, synonymous with excellence and ethical sourcing, showcased through prestigious luxury brands worldwide. This isn't just about selling diamonds; it's about empowering our nation and elevating our global reputation. Botswana's expertise in rough diamond business is unparalleled. Picture us as the global hub for diamond sorting, where rough stones from across the globe are meticulously processed on our soil. But we won't stop there. We'll train our people to master the art of diamond manufacturing, turning rough stones into polished gems certified under the Botswana brand. These gems will not only adorn the jewelry of discerning clientele but also tell the story of Botswana's ingenuity and craftsmanship. Picture locally-designed jewelry, inspired by our culture and heritage, adorning tourists in Maun and gracing the collections of high-end boutiques in New York. By managing the entire diamond value chain within our borders, from mining to marketing, we ensure that every facet of Botswana's diamond industry contributes to our nation's prosperity. This isn't just a vision; it's a blueprint for a brighter future—one where Botswana shines as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the global diamond arena.

The latest edition of The Journal of Gemmology (Volume 39, No. 2) is now available for Gem-A Members to read online 📚 This issue’s cover photo showcases a top-quality Burmese jade pendant featuring a cabochon measuring 35.95 × 30.65 × 15.47 mm. High-quality ‘Imperial green’ jadeite-omphacite jade is known mainly from Myanmar, but similar material is also on the market from Guatemala and elsewhere. Value differences between jades from various localities are creating demand for laboratories to determine their geographic origin, and techniques for doing this are described on pp. 124–144 of this issue. 📷 Stanley Chu, On Tung Jewellery, Hong Kong. Gem-A Members can log in to read: https://lnkd.in/g2wPyJ2r #GemAofGB #JournalofGemmology #imperialgreenjade #jadeite #jade #gemmologyresources #gemmologymagazine #studygemmology #GemAMembers #FGA #DGA 

𝟭𝟱 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘀-𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 I captured this video in Margilan, Uzbekistan during our recent tour to Central Asia. These 15 seconds are like the low-resolution image of a cell. Zoom in and explore a whole new world. Some of the hidden depths: 💙 Ikat weaving is a centuries old art in Uzbekistan. It is continued today in Margilan, where multiple artistic masters work in collaboration to create this beautiful resist-dyed silk fabric. 💙 Relationships are key in Central Asia. We were able to visit this master weaver’s home because of my almost 10 years relationship with Aziz Murtazaev of the Marikat artisan group. 💙 Traditional ikat weaving is helping to preserve the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, which was almost lost during Soviet times, when ikat masters were sent to prison for practicing their art in secret. 💙 Ikat weaving is also a valuable source of cash income for the women weavers, who can practice their art from home while taking care of their families in a conservative part of Uzbekistan. 💙 Innovation and tradition work together in this unique modern design produced using the ancient techniques.

🇮🇹 🏛️ Italian Marble and Stone Machinery Update 🏛️ #EngineeredwithPassion According to Confindustria Marmomacchine, In the first seven months of 2024, Italian exports of machinery and equipment for natural stone processing decreased by 7.2%. However, Canada emerged as one of the top ten buyers, with a 9.7% increase in imports of Italian machinery, ranking fourth overall. In contrast, exports to the United States dropped significantly by 27.6%, highlighting a shift in market dynamics. Source: Markets Trends Analysis Office, CONFINDUSTRIA MARMOMACCHINE #MachinesItalia #ItalianExports #NaturalStone #Canada #EngineeredwithPassion

Tension Brews in Indonesia Over Chinese Ceramics Chinese ceramics have long been a cornerstone of the intricate relationship between China and Indonesia, spanning a millennia of cultural exchange and economic ties. As a nation that has been crafting ceramics since 2,500 BC, China has been exporting its traditional motifs and folk tales all over the world through the material. However, in recent years, the rapid growth of Chinese ceramic tile imports has posed unique challenges for Indonesia’s domestic ceramic industry. If left unchecked, it could spark potential tensions between the two countries. One problem is when Chinese ceramic imports enter the Indonesian market at prices up to 100% cheaper than locally produced ceramics. While Indonesia charges between $4 and $5 per square meter of ceramics, for instance, Chinese products are priced at just $2.3 to $2.7 per square meter. Illegal imports of Chinese ceramics are also another challenge. Recently, the Ministry of Trade had to destroy 4.57 million units of illegal tableware ceramics worth nearly $5,000. The products either lacked proper labeling or had expired Indonesian National Standard (SNI) marks. https://lnkd.in/gfS6ud4r 

🇮🇹 🏛️ Italian Marble and Stone Machinery Update 🏛️ According to Confindustria Marmomacchine, In the first seven months of 2024, Italian exports of machinery and equipment for natural stone processing decreased by 7.2%. However, Canada emerged as one of the top ten buyers, with a 9.7% increase in imports of Italian machinery, ranking fourth overall. In contrast, exports to the United States dropped significantly by 27.6%, highlighting a shift in market dynamics. Source: Markets Trends Analysis Office, CONFINDUSTRIA MARMOMACCHINE #MachinesItalia #ItalianExports #NaturalStone #Canada #EngineeredwithPassion