ADK to offer free entrance to its exchange hall

In an interesting development for the diamond trading community, the Antwerpsche Diamantkring cvba (ADK), considered to be the heart of the world rough diamond trade, is allowing a free entrance to its exchange hall during May and June 2009. The initiative is applicable to all diamantaires who are not members of Belgian bourses and who hold a 2009 membership card at bourses affiliated to the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB).

David Wahl, president of the ADK mentions that, "As a member of the WFDB, we believe the exchange plays an important role both locally in Antwerp and internationally. The decision to waive the daily entrance fee for a two-month period was made due to the fact that we recognise the importance of taking steps to stimulate trade in these trying times. We trust that this gesture will encourage diamantaires to visit Antwerp." The ADK is one of four diamond exchanges located in Antwerp. It is considered unique as being the only bourse with an exchange hall that is dedicated to the rough diamond trade.

Avi Paz, president of the WFDB applauded the initiative saying “ It is encouraging to see bourses and their executive committees trying to find various solutions to promote growth. I am sure that other bourses will follow suit and find novel ways to increase traffic to their exchanges."