Archaeologists from Sweden have unearthed thousands of medieval objects among which a gold ring with Christ’s face was discovered, CBS News reported.

The gold ring which reportedly belongs from the 15th century has a carved figure of Jesus Christ in the middle. The new-looking ring is small in size and archaeologists believe it to be of a female.

Before this similar type of jewellery was found in other parts of Sweden and Finland.

The archaeologists were excavating the coastal city of Kalmar in Southwest Sweden. It is part of the National Historical Museums Agency (NHMA).

Researchers investigating the area found 50 medieval plots, small everyday objects, and alsengem which researchers believe might have been used as a religious amulet, among other things.

Major findings include buildings, cellars, 10 streets, and parts of an old wall.

According to researchers, the discoveries date back from 1250AD to 1650AD, with the smallest items almost dating back to 400 years ago.

The NHMA has labelled the investigation results as “beyond all expectations.”

The medieval city is believed to have been destroyed by battle in the 1600s, however despite the damage, large areas remain unexcavated.

Magnus Stibéus, a project manager at the Archaeologists says, “We have been able to lift the lid on the city’s Middle Ages and have had the opportunity to study how people lived, what they ate and drank, and how this changed over time.”

Gold prices surged to a new peak, soaring to ₹65,298 per 10 grams on the MCX, indicating a notable increase of over ₹2,700 within the initial week of March last week on Thursday. This remarkable uptrend in the value of the precious metal is primarily attributed to the anticipation of an interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve in June.

This expectation has ignited bullish sentiments in both domestic and international markets, further fueling the rise in gold prices.

Chair Jerome Powell’s indication of the Central Bank’s possible rate reduction in the coming months boosted market confidence, resulting in gold reaching a fresh high of $2,152 in international markets on Wednesday.

Also read: Gold and silver prices Today on 08-03-2024 : Check latest rates in your city

International gold prices ended February 0.25% lower at $2032.8 per ounce, whereas, domestic prices closed 0.67% lower.

On the other hand, MCX Silver witnessed a downtrend following its positive closure on Wednesday last week. By around 9:30 am, it was observed trading at ₹74,015 per kg, reflecting a decrease of ₹123 or 0.17%. However, despite this short-term setback, silver futures have depicted a significant rise of almost ₹2,859 or 4.01% in March. On a year-to-date basis, they have experienced a marginal decline of 0.39% or ₹292, according to analysis provided by the commodity and currency expert.

The surge in gold prices can be attributed to the decline in the dollar index (DXY), which has once again dipped below the 104 mark. Presently, it stands at 103.80 against a basket of six major currencies, showing a degree of stability. Over the past five trading sessions, the dollar index has experienced a 0.17% depreciation.

Also read: Gold rate today hits new high as US Fed testimony pulls down US dollar index to 5-week low

“Despite this unwinding of rate cut expectations, gold is showing relative resilience. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and global growth concerns are acting as tailwinds. While the US economy has managed to weather high borrowing costs and tight credit conditions thanks to US fiscal spending and consumers running down their savings, the support from these factors is expected to wane in 2024, dragging down growth. Rising credit card and auto delinquencies in the US signal weakness ahead. US inflation too is slowly but steadily progressing towards the Fed’s 2% target, which too should support rate cuts. Additionally, the rapidly increasing interest costs on the $34 trillion US national debt too is expected to weigh on policymakers’ decision making, prompting them to cut rates,” said Chirag Mehta, Chief Investment Officer, Quantum AMC.

Where are the Gold prices headed?

According to data by the World Gold Council, central banks’ acquisitions of gold in 2023 amounted to 1,037 tonnes, falling slightly short of the record established in 2022.

“We believe this trend is likely to continue this year amid geopolitical tensions and the uncertainty on the macroeconomic front and act as a soft support for gold prices. As aggressive bets on Fed rate cuts unwind, global Gold ETFs have seen net outflows. Domestic gold ETFs on the other hand saw inflows of 657 crores in January probably driven by investors’ need to diversify their investments given that equity markets are gradually getting expensive,” Mehta said.

He further added, “Gold prices could remain choppy in the months ahead as the market reacts to geopolitical developments and US monetary policy. Medium term outlook for the precious metal looks promising given the imminent turn in US interest rate cycle.”

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By Canadian Press

Mar 9, 2024 | 3:43 PM

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Eliot Grondin took home the gold medal in snowboard cross at the FIS World Cup on Saturday.

The Quebec native won all four of his races to take home his fifth gold of the season, while also finishing with the fastest qualifying time (38.60).

American Jake Vedder finished with silver, while Australian Jarry Hughes rounded out the top three.

Grondin sits atop the leader board after netting two back-to-back silver medals in World Cup snowboard cross action in Spain last week.

Vijayawada: Soaring gold prices have become a major concern for the people ahead of the summer wedding season. Gold price touched a record high mark of 6,627 per gram in city on Saturday resulting in sudden fall in demand. Gold ornaments play a key role in Telugu weddings. No weddings are complete without gold which is often gifted in the form of ‘Sthree Dhana’ to the bride by her paternal family members.Gold prices shot up globally in last 10 days and recorded an increase of 430 per gram. As a result, demand for gold fell significantly and gold shops wore a deserted look. “We are experiencing huge losses for last 10 days with fall in sales. Predictions of gold rate touching 7,200 per gram is creating panic among the buyers. This is a mighty blow ahead of wedding season for us,” said Dogiparthi Sumanth, a jeweller and member of Vijayawada Jewellers Association. Buyers are unhappy over the gold prices. “Gold and Telugu weddings cannot be seen separately. Even poor and middle class buy gold during weddings. Surge in prices during wedding season is definitely a big blow. We are eyeing to buy around 100 grams of gold for my daughter’s wedding and we need to pay 40,000 extra with the price hike,” said K Madhava Rao, a retired employee. Sources said the gold price is expected to increase significantly in next 10 days and stablilise at 6,700 per gram in city. Meanwhile, a few jewellers are offering huge discounts on wastage and making charges to attract buyers.

We also published the following articles recently

Gold surges Rs 800 to hit record high of Rs 65,000 per 10 grams

Gold prices in Delhi markets reached a new record high of Rs 65,000 per 10 grams, driven by global trends and speculation of US interest rate cuts. Silver surged to Rs 74,900 per kg. International gold prices rose to USD 2,110 per ounce.

Gold jumps Rs 500 to scale record high of Rs 65,650 per 10 grams

Gold prices in Delhi rose to Rs 65,650 per 10 grams, while silver prices reached Rs 74,900 per kg. Spot gold at Comex hit $2,152 per ounce in Asian trading hours. The upcoming US CPI data and non-farm payroll will impact gold trends, according to Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities.

Gold price today: Gold rate hits new high; March gains surpass Rs 2,700; what you should know

Gold prices on MCX reached a new peak of Rs 65,298 per 10 grams, driven by expectations of a US Federal Reserve interest rate cut. Silver futures increased. Weakness in the dollar and strong demand, particularly from China, supported the rise in gold prices. Silver futures declined.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Eliot Grondin took home the gold medal in snowboard cross at the FIS World Cup on Saturday.

The Quebec native won all four of his races to take home his fifth gold of the season, while also finishing with the fastest qualifying time (38.60).

American Jake Vedder finished with silver, while Australian Jarry Hughes rounded out the top three.

Grondin sits atop the leader board after netting two back-to-back silver medals in World Cup snowboard cross action in Spain last week.

The 22-year-old also won a bronze medal earlier this season.

Victoria’s Meryeta O’Dine finished 11th on the women’s side, making the quarterfinals with a time of 41.99.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 9, 2024.

The Canadian Press

KARACHI: Gold prices in Pakistan continued to increase sharply as per tola price witnessed an increase of Rs1,600 in the local market, ARY News reported.

The gold price increased by Rs1600 to reach at Rs230,200 in the domestic market.

Similarly, the price of 10 grams of 22-karat gold also saw an upward trend to trade at Rs180,913.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a week of positive trends and notable growth in business activities after general elections.

At the close of the business week, the KSE-100 index stood at 65,793 points, marking a gain of 468 points or (0.70%).

During the week, the KSE-100 index reached its peak at an impressive 66,150 points reflecting the confidence of investors. However, the lowest KSE-100 index reaching its at 65,187. Such variations are inherent in the stock market, prompting investors to carefully monitor the market dynamics and make informed decisions.

first published: March 09, 2024, 13:39 IST

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The Damien Hardwick era at Gold Coast begins on Saturday, with the Suns hosting Richmond — the club Hardwick famously led to three premierships in four seasons.

The Suns late last season parted ways with Stuart Dew then made a bold move for Hardwick, who signed a long-term deal with coach Gold Coast.

It came after Hardwick sensationally left the Tigers mid-season citing burnout, despite being contracted to Richmond until the end of 2024 season.

The only place to watch every game of AFL’s Opening Round is Fox Footy, available on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today >

MATCH CENTRE: Gold Coast Suns v Richmond stats and more

Richmond legend Jack Riewoldt, who played under Hardwick for most of his decorated career, said Hardwick would inevitably feel nervous ahead of the clash.

“‘Dimma’ used to speak about the ‘Demon of Expectation’ – that was the level of anxiety coming into a Grand Final or being a favourite coming into any game. And I think that’ll be sitting right on his shoulder at the moment,” Riewoldt told Fox Footy’s AFL 360.

“There’s an emotional element for him and I could see that on Monday night when he was on-air. He bloody cares about that group and that football club.”

This match gets underway at 4.20pm AEDT from People First Stadium.

Watch it live on Fox Footy (via Foxtel Channel 504 or stream on Kayo Sports from 3.30pm (AEDT).

QUARTER-BY-QUARTER UPDATES

The Tigers drew first blood, with Shai Bolton streaming into attack and kicking truly to get the visitors off to the ideal start.

It didn’t take long for Ben King to open his goalkicking account for 2024 after converting a set shot. The Suns had several more chances in front of goal early in the game but couldn’t capitalise.

Malcolm Rosas finally put one through with a neat banana kick before King followed with his second in a promising start for Damien Hardwick’s side.

Gold Coast really got going from that put through its “demolition” in the midfield — as put by Lions champ Jonathan Brown on Fox Footy — as Jack Lukosius kicked the next two goals

“The new coach has got to sort this out, he’d be looking at the midfield coach going: ‘What’s going on? Sort these guys out. This is where the experienced part of our team is’,” Brown added.

The Suns led 5.4 (34) to 1.0 (6) at quarter-time.

Nick Holman kicked the opening goal of the second term, with ex-Demons skipper Garry Lyon calling it a “dream start” on Fox Footy.

Matt Rowell was central to the Suns onslaught — labelled an “animal” and praised for being “absolutely ferocious” by Lyon — with the Suns out to an early 42-point lead.

King added another to make it eight-straight Gold Coast goals and a near 50-point advantage, with Hardwick’s side “dominating” his old one “all over the ground”, according to Lyon.

It made for ugly and a tough introduction to coaching tor Adem Yze, watching on helpless with his side discombobulated.

“What a challenge to that man for that man sitting in the hot seat for the first time,” Lyon said of Yze. “Out of the middle it is a tsunami.”

Rosas kicked his second goal for the day — 11 in a row for the Suns in an utter domination.

“In his wildest dreams, Damien Hardwick could not have expected this on his first day,” Fox Footy caller Anthony Hudson said.

Brown added; “It’s a fairytale start … jeez, they look like premiership favourites at the moment! Of course, they’re not going to be.”

In a rare highlight for the Tigers, Seth Campbell kicked his first goal and was mobbed by teammates.

Gold Coast led 11.8 (74) to 2.1 (13) — which was the Suns’ biggest half-time lead in club history.

Follow Gold Coast v Richmond in our live blog below!

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Ahmedabad: Continuing its rally in the international market for the seventh consecutive day, gold price in the local markets rose to a new record high on Friday, reaching Rs 67,500 per 10g. Analysts attribute this spike to the weakening of the US dollar, fuelled by expectations of an interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve in June.This led to increased procurement of gold by central banks, which has raised the price of gold. The price — Rs 66,600 per 10g on Thursday — shot up by Rs 900 in a single day. “Several geopolitical factors, including the economic concerns in China and a softer tone in the global equity markets, have driven up the price of gold. Even as officials have downplayed speculations on the drastic change in policy by the US Federal Reserve, gold price continues its upward march,” said Haresh Acharya, director of the India Bullion and Jewellers’ Association (IBJA). He added, “Speculations over the escalation of military tensions in the Middle East are also pushing up the price. In the international market, the price of gold is expected to climb towards $2,200 in the coming days.”Despite the high prices, Feb witnessed a six-month high in gold imports at 13.9 metric tonnes. Analysts warn of a possible sell-off by investors. In contrast, the price of silver has remained relatively stable, hovering around Rs 74,000 per kg.

We also published the following articles recently

Gold price today: Gold rate hits new high; March gains surpass Rs 2,700; what you should know

Gold prices on MCX reached a new peak of Rs 65,298 per 10 grams, driven by expectations of a June interest rate cut. The yellow metal hit $2,152 in international markets. Silver futures saw an increase in March. Gold rose due to the weakening dollar index.

Gold jumps Rs 500 to scale record high of Rs 65,650 per 10 grams

Gold prices in Delhi rose by Rs 500 to Rs 65,650 per 10 grams, tracking the rally in international markets. Silver prices increased by Rs 400 to Rs 74,900 per kg. The surge was driven by bullish cues from overseas markets. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated that the US central bank may lower interest rates this year.

Gold hits record high for 3rd day

Gold prices reach a record high in the international market, driven by US Federal Reserve chair Jeremy Powell’s dovish stance on interest rates. In the domestic market, prices hit a new life-high. Weak US economic data and banking jitters contribute to the rally. Saumil Gandhi expects the bullish trend to continue.