Independent analysis by Oxford Economics suggests that gold’s share of an optimal portfolio is around 5% in a base long-term economic scenario featuring 2.25% growth and 2% annual inflation . The optimal allocation rises in a more inflationary long-run scenario and also does so for more risk-averse investors in a scenario featuring weaker growth and low inflation.

Nanostellar Inc., a Silicon Valley developer of advanced materials, has completed the commercialisation of a gold-based catalyst, NS Gold™, which is now in production with one of the four largest European diesel car manufacturers. The World Gold Council has provided an additional investment which will help the company to accelerate wider commercial adoption of NS Gold™.

The World Gold Council, the market development organisation for the gold industry, announced today the appointment of Brenda Bates as its Director of Communications. Mrs Bates will have overall responsibility for the strategic development of the World Gold Council’s communications across all markets, effective immediately. She will report directly to Aram Shishmanian, CEO of the World Gold Council, and will be based in London.

The World Gold Council today launched its bridal campaign, “Gold Makes it a Marriage,” at this week’s annual Jewelers’ Circular Keystone (JCK) show in Las Vegas. Lending her iconic bridal style and sophistication to the campaign, is legendary couture bridal designer, Amsale Aberra, who serves as the campaign spokesperson. The campaign highlights the role of the gold marriage ring as a symbol of the deep and lasting commitment two people make to each other on their wedding day – whether they choose yellow, white or rose gold.

The World Gold Council reveals its US Gold Trend Collection for 2011 at this week’s annual Jewelers’ Circular Keystone (JCK) show in Las Vegas. The trends, grouped in six categories, range from the dainty and delicate to the bold and ground-breaking. The collection highlights the inventiveness and high levels of craftsmanship of today’s designers that help build on the allure and preciousness of gold jewelry, making it more desirable than ever.

As of the IMF’s May release of its International Financial Statistics, several countries have reported additional purchases of gold. Notably, Mexico reported to the IMF that it acquired 14.8 and 78.5 tonnes of gold in February and March, respectively. This was a significant increase in its gold holdings, raising Mexico’s position in the table to the 34th largest holder of gold with 100.2 tonnes.