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2023 Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference Summary

By SBMA

The 2023 APPMC focused on ASEAN’s role in building an integrated precious metals market in the Asia Pacific region. Discussions covered market demands, Gold Bar Integrity, PGM, ESG initiatives, technological advancements, and price outlook.

Approximately 470 delegates from across the globe gathered to attend a series of insightful sessions featuring expert panellists and keynote speakers. The conference commenced with an opening speech by KL Yap, Chairman of SBMA, followed by four special addresses that set the stage for the discussions ahead.

KL Yap, Chairman, Singapore Bullion Market Association, welcoming delegates to APPMC 2023.
KL Yap, Chairman, Singapore Bullion Market Association, welcoming delegates to APPMC 2023.

Strategies And Initiatives For Singapore’s Precious Metals Hub

Ivan Tan, Director of Trade at Enterprise Singapore, took the floor to emphasize the significant role of the precious metals industry in enhancing the country’s trade. He outlined Enterprise Singapore’s strategy to establish Singapore as a prominent precious metals hub within the region, focusing on three key areas: improving infrastructure, expanding the participant network, and nurturing young talent.

Ivan Tan
Ivan Tan, Director (Trade), Enterprise Singapore, delivering a special address on Enterprise Singapore’s strategy for building Singapore as a precious metals hub in the region.

LBMA’s Strategic Plan: Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing In Asia

Ruth Crowell, Chief Executive of LBMA, then enlightened the delegates on LBMA’s strategic plan concerning Asia, specifically addressing recycled gold, sustainability, and responsible sourcing. She mentioned LBMA’s collaboration with the ISO project to propose a globally recognised definition for recycled gold. Additionally, LBMA emphasised three other initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and responsible sourcing: the Sustainability & Responsible Sourcing Strategy, Responsible Silver Guidance, and Artisanal Mining. Crowell encouraged participants to actively engage with LBMA, provide feedback on their strategies, and become more involved in their efforts.

Ruth Crowell
Ruth Crowell, CEO of LBMA, delivering a special address on LBMA’s strategic plan for Asia.

World Gold Council’s Vision: Overcoming Trust Issues And Enhancing Market Integrity

David Tait, Global CEO of the World Gold Council, drew attention to the fact that trust issues, provenance concerns, barriers to market participation, capital costs, and settlement risks continue to deter institutional and retail investors from engaging with gold. Tait discussed various initiatives undertaken by the World Gold Council to address these challenges. These initiatives include launching responsible gold mining principles, implementing an international system of gold bar integrity in collaboration with LBMA, and developing principles for retail gold investment and responsible gold investor guidance in key markets, including Singapore. Tait urged the industry to collaborate in developing universally accepted solutions that uphold the highest levels of integrity.

TAIT URGED THE INDUSTRY TO COLLABORATE IN DEVELOPING UNIVERSALLY ACCEPTED SOLUTIONS THAT UPHOLD THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF INTEGRITY.

David Tait
David Tait, the global CEO of the World Gold Council, attentively listened to other speakers after delivering a special address on the WGC’s regional initiatives and the vision for the gold market.

Shanghai Gold Exchange International: Advancing Integration In The Asia Pacific Gold Market

The final special address was delivered by Li Ming, Supervisor of Shanghai Gold Exchange International. Li shed light on SGE’s endeavours in advancing the integration of the Asia Pacific gold market. SGE established an ‘International Board’ in 2014, enabling direct participation of overseas investors in China’s market trading. Over time, the number of SGE international members has grown from 40 in 2014 to 100 as of May 2023. SGE has also been actively promoting the adoption of standardized market practices to foster integration within the region. Notably, this includes quoting Shanghai gold in RMB per gram, based on a 1 kg standard gold ingot with no lower than 999.9 fineness, and facilitating physical settlement within SGE. Moreover, SGE has facilitated the connection between domestic and international gold production capacities, with the aim of upgrading the regional industrial chain. Li firmly believes that the cooperation between the Chinese market and the Asia Pacific region holds tremendous potential for growth.

Li Ming
Li Ming, supervisor of the SGEI, speaking in a special address on SGE’s efforts in advancing the integration of the Asia Pacific gold market.

Keynote Speech: Macro Backdrop And The Role Of Precious Metals

Taimur Baig, MD and Chief Economist at DBS Bank, delivered a keynote speech on the macro backdrop, covering inflation, geopolitics, and the role of precious metals. Key takeaways: inflation is easing, but prices may need revaluation. Inflation peaked at 8%, with Core PCE data reaching 5.5% before trending downwards. Geopolitics could drive medium-term inflation, with factors like USD weaponisation and China’s strategies. Gold, despite expectations of a sell-off, remains valuable due to central bank purchases, indicating its future role in portfolios.

DBS’s managing director and chief economist, Taimur Baig, delivering a keynote address on inflation, geopolitics and gold.
DBS’s managing director and chief economist, Taimur Baig, delivering a keynote address on inflation, geopolitics and gold.

The first panel, moderated by Albert Cheng, CEO of SBMA, provided regional updates. Louis Ng, President of the Malaysia Gold Association, discussed the Malaysian gold market. Malaysia’s annual GDP growth rate during the pandemic was negative, but stability is expected at 4.5% in 2023. Gold jewelry exports matched pre-COVID levels at USD 1,341 million, but an upcoming luxury goods tax may impact demand.

Nuttapong Hirunyasiri, MD of MTS Gold Group, shared an overview of Thailand’s gold trade. Thai gold prices reached a record-breaking 32,965 baht in May 2023, while jewelry factories prioritize sustainability. Thai manufacturers are actively joining the Responsible Jewellery Council for responsible sourcing, and Thai companies are introducing digital platforms and gold wallets to promote local participation, he said.

HUYNH TRUNG KHANH, VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE VIETNAM GOLD TRADERS ASSOCIATION, ESTIMATED H1 2023 GOLD DEMAND AT 27 TONNES, WITH 8 TONNES FOR JEWELRY AND 19 TONNES FOR RETAIL INVESTMENT.

Huynh Trung Khanh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Gold Traders Association, estimated H1 2023 gold demand at 27 tonnes, with 8 tonnes for jewelry and 19 tonnes for retail investment. Decree 24 liberalised gold jewelry production and sales, simplifying requirements for gold tael bar production. However, it has allowed only foreign-invested enterprises to import gold raw materials for the purpose of manufacturing gold jewelry for export. Discussions with the central bank’s forex department aim to classify jewelry as regular commercial items and permit the sale of non-SJC gold tael bar brands.

Sahat Pangaribuan, Senior EVP of PT Pegadaian, discussed Indonesia’s gold ecosystem. Low domestic demand, despite being a global producer, led the government to prioritise development. Tax regulations will be reassessed, and gold exportation restricted. Promoting gold as an asset class requires strengthening the financial system and implementing appropriate measures, he noted.

Panellists for “What Do Market Participants Want From the ASEAN Precious Metals Markets?” (L to R): Louis Ng (Malaysia Gold Association, Malaysia), Nuttapong Hirunyasiri (MTS Gold Group, Thailand), Albert Cheng (SBMA, Singapore) – moderator, Huynh Trung Khanh (Vietnam Gold Traders Association, Vietnam), and Sahat Pangaribuan (PT Pegadaian, Indonesia).
Panellists for “What Do Market Participants Want From the ASEAN Precious Metals Markets?” (L to R): Louis Ng (Malaysia Gold Association, Malaysia), Nuttapong Hirunyasiri (MTS Gold Group, Thailand), Albert Cheng (SBMA, Singapore) – moderator, Huynh Trung Khanh (Vietnam Gold Traders Association, Vietnam), and Sahat Pangaribuan (PT Pegadaian, Indonesia).

A special session on China, curated by the SGE, began with an address from Zhang Yongtao, VP & Secretary-General of the China Gold Association. Zhang highlighted China’s gold market, emphasizing its present state, opportunities, and challenges. He noted geopolitical tensions, a bleak global economic outlook, and rising global inflation as factors supporting gold’s significance as a safe haven and store of value. These factors are expected to drive China’s domestic gold market. However, tighter regulations in the private precious metals trading business have reduced gold trading volume, limiting market expansion. Zhang suggested standardising and internationalising the domestic market while improving physical gold repurchase channels.

Roland Wang, Regional CEO – China at the WGC, emphasized gold connectivity potential between China and ASEAN. China experienced a strong gold consumption recovery in 2023, with double-digit year-on-year demand growth predicted. ASEAN also maintained strong gold consumption. Wang highlighted the close trade partnership, China’s manufacturing prowess, and innovative gold products as a foundation for potential gold connectivity with ASEAN.

Li Ming provided further details on SGE’s international development initiatives, including the Shanghai Benchmark Price and the “Gold Road” Project. The project aims to streamline interactions between Chinese manufacturers and international enterprises using the SGE/SGEI platform. Li discussed four business models supporting the initiative. Lee Koon Wong, Head of Commodity Sales at ICBC Standard Bank Plc, provided insights into ICBC Standard Bank’s active participation in cross-border gold trading through the SGE Gold Road initiative.

Mary Lim, COO of SK Jewellery, expressed interest in collaborating with Chinese jewelry manufacturers to enhance production processes with advanced technologies and designs. This partnership benefits both Singapore and China, providing access to expertise and markets. Lim highlighted the trend of adults encouraging younger generations to invest in jewelry.

Wang Yuhan, Chairman of Dongwu Gold Group, reiterated collaboration potential between China and Southeast Asia’s bullion market. He emphasized China’s recognized bullion market, strong infrastructure, and jewelry manufacturing capabilities. Historical trade and cultural exchanges, Southeast Asia’s sizable gold market, and rapid growth support collaboration. Wang emphasised mutual benefits, such as new product development, regional financial stability, and increased cross-border trade.

Panellists for the Special Session on China (L to R)
Panellists for the Special Session on China (L to R): Zhang Yongtao (China Gold Association), Roland Wang (World Gold Council), Li Ming (Shanghai Gold Exchange International), Albert Cheng (SBMA), Lee Koon Wong (ICBC Standard Bank Plc), Mary Lim (SK Jewellery), and Wang Yuhan (Dongwu Gold Group).
Day 2 Networking Lunch sponsored by LBMA: Attendees gathered for a delightful networking session at the event.
Day 2 Networking Lunch sponsored by LBMA: Attendees gathered for a delightful networking session at the event.

The second panel session, chaired by Sakhila Mirza (Executive Director, LBMA), focused on the Gold Bar Integrity (GBI) program. Mirza emphasized its objective to ensure genuine and responsibly sourced precious metals, free from fraud. Speakers elaborated on their contributions.

David Woodford (CFO, ABC Refinery) discussed the development of a security feature to identify counterfeit bars using QR codes, scanning, and coating/DNA markers. ABC Refinery also enabled authentication through a mobile app in collaboration with Provche.

Urs Röösli (CEO, aXedras Group AG) presented a blockchain-based bullion integrity ledger, facilitating data exchange among participants. It provides a digital twin for each bar, enhancing transparency and offering valuable information like custody and authentication. The decentralised aXedras ecosystem enables partners to exchange data through a single interface.

Gregor Gregersen (Founder, Silver Bullion) introduced GramChain, a real-time tracking system across Zurich, Dallas, and Singapore. It offers traceability, live broadcasts through RFID scanners, and integrates with Chainlink for reliable on-chain contract integration.

Sachin Patel (Executive Director, CME Group) shared LBMA and WGC’s findings on the GBI initiative. COMEX gold inventories and deposits at CME vaults increased due to geopolitical tensions. Patel highlighted milestones, including COMEX aligning with international standards for conflict-free gold, LBMA brands added for Gold and Silver Futures, and the requirement for responsible guidance compliance for silver, platinum, and palladium producers.

Panellists for “Understanding the significance of Gold Bar Integrity” (L to R)
Panellists for “Understanding the significance of Gold Bar Integrity” (L to R): Sakhila Mirza (LBMA), Gregor Gregersen (Silver Bullion), Sachin Patel (CME Group), Urs Röösli (aXedras Group AG), and David Woodford (ABC Refinery).

Ferry Irawan, Acting Deputy Minister for Macroeconomic and Finance Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, kicked off the second special session on Indonesia with a keynote address. He outlined the country’s economic growth targets, aiming for a 5.3% growth rate in 2023 and further increases in 2024. The government is committed to expediting structural reforms to enhance investment competitiveness and promote downstream activities in the natural resource sector. The development of the Indonesia Knowledge Network (IKN) will also be accelerated to boost the construction sector. Bullion services have made significant progress in Indonesia, with legal provisions in place for conducting such services within the country. Technical regulations (POJK) are being drafted to determine if financial service institutions can offer bullion services, and the government has reduced the tax on gold to expedite their implementation.

Agus Wibowo, Assistant Deputy for Financial Services and Information Industry at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, provided insights into the establishment of bullion services and their potential impact on the economy. The introduction of bullion services is projected to increase GDP by 0.15%, consumption by 0.28%, and investment by 0.32%. Optimizing the gold supply chain is expected to boost GDP by 1.3% and create approximately 800,000 new jobs. The implementation of bullion services could also increase the money supply by up to IDR 53 trillion, indicating substantial economic benefits.

OPTIMIZING THE GOLD SUPPLY CHAIN IS EXPECTED TO BOOST GDP BY 1.3% AND CREATE APPROXIMATELY 800,000 NEW JOBS.

To conclude the session, PT Pegadaian’s Sahat Pangaribuan gave a detailed overview of the company’s execution roadmap as the pilot for bullion banking. In Phase 1 (2022-2024), PT Pegadaian will introduce various products such as dore inancing, unallocated accounts for retail customers, and gold metal loans. Phase 2 (2025-2027) aims to offer a full suite of products including gold-backed financing, unallocated accounts, physical gold, and paper gold trading.

Panellists for the Special Session on Indonesia
Panellists for the Special Session on Indonesia: Ferry Irawan (CMEA, Republic of Indonesia), Albert Cheng (SBMA), Agus Wibowo (CMEA, Republic of Indonesia), and Sahat Pangaribuan (PT Pegadaian).

The conference then turned its focus to Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). Zhuoying Jing, Chairperson of the Asian WiPGM chapter – Women in PGMs, delivered a special address introducing WiPGM, an organisational network that promotes collaboration among women in the PGMs value chain. WiPGM provides a platform for learning, mentorship, and contributing to industry growth.

Zhuoying Jing, Chairperson of the Asian WiPGM chapter – Women in PGMs, posed for a candid photo with Ruth Crowell and Sakhila Mirza from LBMA after delivering a special address.
Zhuoying Jing, Chairperson of the Asian WiPGM chapter – Women in PGMs, posed for a candid photo with Ruth Crowell and Sakhila Mirza from LBMA after delivering a special address.

The third panel session, led by Martin Huxley, Honorary Advisor of SBMA, centred on the rise of PGMs in ASEAN. Frank Chen, Founder of BR Metals, introduced the company specialising in collecting, sampling, and recycling scrap materials containing platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

Deng Weibin, Regional Head – Asia Pacific of the World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC), provided insights into the formation of WPIC and its response to increasing investor demand for platinum. Global platinum demand grew by 28% YoY in 2023, with South Africa and Russia as major suppliers. Deng highlighted platinum’s primary use in automobiles and its emerging demand from green hydrogen fuel for electric vehicles.

Gregory Frith, Director of Precious Metals Sales & Trading at StoneX, highlighted the company’s leading position as an OTC physical and hedging counterparty for various precious metals.

Frith proposed establishing an Asian Catalyst Recycling Hub in Singapore to centralise spent catalyst recycling from major markets, aligning with the shift toward environmentally friendly vehicles. He expressed optimism about increased PGM trading with Japan, given its advanced manufacturing capabilities and appeal for foreign investment.

Simon Huang, Managing Director of Sino-Platinum Metals, concluded the panel session by showcasing the company’s extensive ASEAN operations since 1938. Sino-Platinum Metals specialises in automotive catalysts, precious metal alloy materials, and pastes for electronic components. They offer a wide range of platinum-based solutions for catalysts, alloys, and electronic applications.

Panellists for “The Emergence of PGM in ASEAN” (L to R)
Panellists for “The Emergence of PGM in ASEAN” (L to R): Simon Huang (Sino-Platinum Metals), Frank Chen (BR Metals), Deng Weibin (World Platinum Investment Council), Martin Huxley (SBMA) – moderator and Gregory Frith (StoneX).
Photos of Day 2 Gala Dinner sponsored by Rand Refinery
A memorable evening of celebration and camaraderie among attendees at the event.
Photos of Day 2 Gala Dinner sponsored by Rand Refinery: A memorable evening of celebration and camaraderie among attendees at the event.

On the final day, Kamlesh Sharma, GM & Head of Precious Metals at IFSCA, initiated the session on India’s gold market. With India being the second-largest gold importer globally, IFSCA aims to establish the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) in collaboration with five market intermediary institutions. It plans to enable foreign banks for trading and custody of bullion, expand vaulting facilities, and introduce derivative products via IIBX.

Kamlesh Sharma, Head of Precious Metals – International Financial Services Centres Authority, presenting “Development of a Precious Metals Ecosystem at GIFT-IFSC”.
Kamlesh Sharma, Head of Precious Metals – International Financial Services Centres Authority, presenting “Development of a Precious Metals Ecosystem at GIFT-IFSC”.

The fourth panel session, led by Hannah Brandstaetter, ESG Programme Director at WGC, focused on ESG initiatives in the gold industry. Brandstaetter highlighted the Gold Industry Declaration of Responsibility and Sustainability Principles, emphasising responsible sourcing, sustainable development, human rights, and diversity. Wayne Gordon, MD of UBS AG, mentioned UBS’s commitment to environmental and societal issues. Jonathan Jodry, BD Director at Metalor Technologies, discussed their ESG initiatives, including strict gold sourcing regulations and compliance with the Responsible Jewellery Council’s standards. Robin Wang, Executive Chairman of Zijin (Singapore) International Mining, shared Zijin Mining’s goal to become a green and efficient company. They aim to reduce their carbon footprint, employ local residents, and restore vegetation.

Panellists for “ESG Initiatives in Precious Metals Sector”
Panellists for “ESG Initiatives in Precious Metals Sector” (L to R): Jonathan J. Jodry (Metalor Technologies SA), Wayne Gordon (UBS AG), Hannah Brandstaetter (World Gold Council) – moderator, and Robin Wang (Zijin International Mining).

The fifth panel session, chaired by Andrew Naylor, examined technology and innovation in the precious metals industry. Anoushka Rayner, Head of Growth – Commodities at Paxos, discussed how blockchain technology can improve market infrastructure. Paxos offers regulated custodian, infrastructure, and token services, including PaxG, a regulated gold token backed by LBMA-accredited physical gold. Tokenising gold enhances transparency and expands investment opportunities, she highlighted.

PAXOS OFFERS REGULATED CUSTODIAN, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND TOKEN SERVICES, INCLUDING PAXG, A REGULATED GOLD TOKEN BACKED BY LBMA-ACCREDITED PHYSICAL GOLD.

Steven Randall, Director at Kallanish Index Services (KIS), introduced their gold reference price offerings in Asia to enhance pricing transparency. KIS delivers precise daily reference prices for kilobar spot premiums in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, providing flexibility in data selection, comparison, and export.

Peng Jingkai, Senior VP at HydraX, presented the platform’s regulatory-compliant financial infrastructure solutions. HydraX enables traditional finance companies to transition to Web 3.0 through token management, exchange services, self-custody solutions, and digital asset custody. Features include Smart Order Routing, Real-time Positions Management, and Liquidity Management.

Panellists for “Technology & Innovation in the Precious Metals Industry”
Panellists for “Technology & Innovation in the Precious Metals Industry” (L to R): Andrew Naylor (World Gold Council), Steven Randall (Kallanish Index Services), Anoushka Rayner (Paxos), and Peng Jingkai (HydraX).

The sixth and final panel was packed with information and kicked off with the launch of the 2023 Gold Focus by Nikos Kavalis (Managing Director, Metals Focus Singapore). He was later joined by Bruce Ikemizu (Executive Director, JBMA), Nicholas Frappell (Global Head Institutional Markets, ABC Refinery) and Bart Melek (Managing Director and Global Head of Commodity Strategy, TD Securities) as panellists to discuss gold’s price outlook.

The panellists shared a consistent bullish outlook for gold in the long term. Melek anticipated a potential pivot by the Fed towards accommodative policy rates, leading to a decrease in real interest rates and supporting gold prices.

TD Securities set a target of US$2,100 for the end of the year. Ikemizu expressed optimism due to geopolitical factors, de-dollarisation, and increasing US public debt, favouring gold over the US dollar. Frappell concurred with Ikemizu’s long-term analysis but noted a possible short-term dip to around US$1,800 due to reduced liquidity after the debt ceiling agreement.

Panellists for “Precious Metals Price Outlook”
Panellists for “Precious Metals Price Outlook” (L to R): Nikos Kavalis (Metals Focus Singapore), Bart Melek (TD Securities), Bruce Ikemizu (JBMA), and Nicholas Frappell (ABC Refinery).
Photos of Day 1 Cocktail Reception
Photos of Day 1 Cocktail Reception sponsored by Metalor Technologies.
Photos of Day 1 Cocktail Reception sponsored by Metalor Technologies.
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Singapore Bullion Market Association Secretariat-Lee-Jia-Yi

Lee Jia Yi

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Before joining SBMA, Jia Yi worked as an Admin & Reporting Officer in her previous role. She holds a Diploma in Business & Social Enterprise from Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Jia Yi is responsible for managing and maintaining physical and digital files in SBMA, supporting invoicing processes, reconciling receivables and payables, coordinating meetings and conferences. Additionally, she will provide support to the team and assist the Business Director in managing the Association’s office operations and general administrative activities.

SECRETARIAT SBMA-Emily-Oh

Emily Oh

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Emily Oh is the Operations & Admin Executive, a seasoned professional who values teamwork and effective communication. She is skilled at adapting to new challenges and takes a proactive and resourceful approach to every task. Before joining SBMA, Emily had experience coordinating international travel arrangements and spearheading community initiatives. Her role at SBMA will be providing operational and administrative support for projects and other matters to the team.

SECRETARIAT SBMA Clara-Chang

Clara Chang

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS EXECUTIVE
Clara Chang joins SBMA as the Marketing & Communications Executive, enriching the team with her extensive experience in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing. Prior to joining SBMA, Clara held the position of Marketing Executive at her previous job. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University at Buffalo, one in International Trade and another in Geographical Information Science. Her core duties will include maintaining the SBMA website, managing the quarterly Crucible newsletter, among other responsibilities.

SBMA Committee-Photo-john-levin

Mr John Levin

Global Metals
TD Securities
John Levin is the Head of Metal Sales & Trading – APAC at the Toronto Dominion Bank’s Singapore office. Prior to this role, he devoted seven years to leading precious metal sales for the ANZ banking group in his home country, Australia. Notably, from 2009 to 2011, John played a significant role on the management committee of the London Bullion Market Association while serving as the Head of Precious Metals Sales for HSBC Global Banking and Markets in the UK.

SBMA Secretariat-Fabian-Lew

Fabian Lew

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Fabian was a Business Development and Marketing Associate before joining SBMA. He graduated from Singapore Management University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

He has joined SBMA since February, 2022.

SBMA-margare-secretariat

Margaret Wong

BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Margaret Wong, Business Director at SBMA (Singapore Bullion Market Association), brought valuable experience from her previous role at the World Gold Council (WGC). Her tenure at WGC provided her with extensive exposure to the gold community in Singapore and the broader region. This background has been instrumental in establishing strong working relationships within the industry.

Margaret’s role at SBMA encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. She oversees office management, business support processes, finance, and administrative functions essential for the smooth operation of the team and management committee. Additionally, Margaret handles membership matters, member communications, and addresses public inquiries related to SBMA.

One of Margaret’s key responsibilities is coordinating with the Event Management Company for SBMA’s prestigious annual event, the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference. This flagship conference plays a crucial role in the industry, making her involvement pivotal in its success.

Described as resourceful and self-motivated, Margaret Wong brings a wealth of skills and experience to her role at SBMA, ensuring efficient operations and effective engagement within the precious metals community in Singapore and beyond.

SBMA-Albert-secretariat

Albert Cheng

Chief Executive Officer

Albert Cheng joined the World Gold Council in March 1993 as a Regional Manager, becoming Managing Director, Far East in 2003. He retired at the end of March 2015 and was subsequently named its Advisor. He has also been an International Advisor to the Shanghai Gold Exchange since 2002.

His marketing career began with Dentsu Young & Rubicam, Hong Kong in the early 80’s. He began gold marketing in July 1985 when he joined the Royal Canadian Mint as a Regional Manager for Southeast Asia.

He was appointed honorary CEO of SBMA in November 2015. He is responsible for the success and strategic development of SBMA, represents the interests of the Association, and is responsible for all the legal and regulatory aspects of the work of the Association. He is the primary contact for regulators and government bodies on bullion market development.

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

CEO
YLG Bullion Singapore Pte Ltd

Pawan is the CEO of YLG Bullion Singapore and founder of YLG Bullion International. She has almost 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry and established YLG in Thailand in 2003. In 2012, she brought YLG to Singapore. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Thailand Gold Traders Association, the Thailand Futures Exchange’s Arbitration Committee, and the Rotary Bangkok committee. She holds a master’s degree in Political Science.

SBMA-Shaokai-Fan

Mr Shaokai Fan

Head of Asia-Pacific (ex China) and Global Head of Central Banks
World Gold Council
Shaokai Fan is the Global Head of Central Banks at the World Gold Council, responsible for advising governments on gold matters, and enhancing the gold market through engagement, dialogue, and thought leadership. He works directly with central banks and sovereign wealth funds on investment considerations. Prior to this position, Shaokai held multiple roles at Standard Chartered Bank, including Director for Asia Strategic Initiatives and Associate-Director for Public Sector coverage. Shaokai holds a Masters of Public Administration from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, and an undergraduate degree in finance and economics from New York University.

SBMA-Committee-Alan-Liew

Mr Alan Liew

Head of Bullion & Commodities Trading
United Overseas Bank Limited
Alan is Head of Bullion and Commodities Trading for Group Trading in Global Markets, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Alan joined UOB and started the bank’s commodities trading business in 2014, previously he spent eight years in Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) trading both precious and base metals. During his tenure at SCB, he obtained the SGE gold trader licence and was part of the pioneering team for the SGE business and the FX quantitative trading team. Prior to trading, he worked for Monetary Authority of Singapore in the Financial Risk Management Division. He holds a BSc (Hon) in Computer Science at National University of Singapore and a MSc in Financial Engineering at Nanyang Technological University.

SBMA-Committee-Nikos

Mr Nikos Kavalis

Managing Director
Metals Focus Singapore Pte Ltd
Nikos Kavalis is a founding partner of Metals Focus. He has over 20 years of experience in precious metals, having previously worked for the Royal Bank of Scotland and GFMS. Since September 2019, Nikos has been based in Singapore, where he also runs the local subsidiary of Metals Focus.

SBMA-Committee-khun nuttapong

Mr Nuttapong Hirunyasiri

CEO
MTS Gold Global Trading Pte Ltd
Nuttapong Hirunyasiri is the CEO of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s top 10 companies and top 3 bullion companies. He started MTS Gold Group’s first overseas office in Singapore and has been expanding the group business internationally. He focuses on product development and innovation for gold investment, with the aim of being a leader in providing the full suite of gold investment services in the ASEAN region.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Raman-Walia

Mr Raman Walia

Executive Director, Head of Commodities Sales – APAC
JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.

Raman is Executive Director and Head of Commodities Sales, APAC, for J.P. Morgan. He joined JPMorgan in 2008 in New York, moved to Singapore in 2011, and helped expand the precious metals business in the region. Raman has an MBA from Cornell University, and likes to travel in his spare time.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Andrew-Clarke

Mr Andrew Clarke

Head of Brink’s Global Services
Brink’s Global Services Pte Ltd

Andrew Clarke is the Head of BGS (Brink’s Global Services) for Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. He has held various leadership positions throughout his career in secure logistics and risk management with Brink’s, which started in Hong Kong in 2010. Andrew relocated to Singapore in 2018 to expand the precious metals line of business along with Brink’s portfolio of services and industries.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Kazuya-Naoki

Mr Kazuya Naoki

Head of Metals, Asia
ICBC Standard Bank Plc, Singapore Branch

Kazuya (Kaz) Naoki is the Head of Metals, Asia of ICBC Standard Bank in Singapore and is responsible for the precious & base metals sales and trading in the region. He joined Standard Bank Plc Tokyo Branch in 2008 and was relocated to its Singapore Branch in 2013 whose controlling stake was acquired by the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China in 2015. Prior to joining Standard Bank, Kaz spent 11 years focusing on commodity trading and risk management with Mitsui & Co in Tokyo, Sydney and London. Kaz has been serving on the SBMA Management Committee since 2016.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Vinh-Nguyen

Mr Vinh Nguyen

Head of Precious Metals, Asia
StoneX APAC Pte Ltd

Vinh Nguyen joined StoneX Group in Singapore at the beginning of 2008 and responsible for its APAC precious metals activities since 2019 until now.

SBMA Committee-KL-Yap

Mr KL Yap

General Manager, Singapore Refining Business Unit
Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd
KL YAP is the General Manager of Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd’s Singapore Refining Business Unit. He joined Metalor in 2013, initially in Refining Sales. In 2014, he became Refining Business Unit Manager, leading the development of a new precious metal refinery. KL was Vice Chairman of SBMA from 2017 to 2021, now serving as Chairman. With a degree in business commerce, finance, and marketing, he brings prior experience from refinery and heavy industries.