Antwerp: “There is still room to find a solution, to keep the financing levels of the Antwerp diamond sector at market conform levels.” This is AWDC’s reaction to the news that KBC will proceed with an ‘orderly wind-down’ of the Antwerp Diamond Bank.

“As an umbrella organization we have been duly following the developments in this matter,” says Margaux Donckier, AWDC spokesperson. “The divestiture of the Antwerp Diamond Bank (ADB) in 2009 was a precondition for KBC to be saved by means of state aid.” About one-third of Antwerp diamond dealers are financed by ADB. These are primarily small and medium size diamond dealers, for whom finding other sources of financing presents challenges.

AWDC is counting on KBC to act responsibly and to “(…) run down ADB’s activities in a gradual and orderly manner, (…) with respect for its clients and the contractual arrangements agreed with them,” as KBC stated in its own press release.

Moreover, KBC’s press release clearly demonstrates that there is a possibility for ADB to make a fresh start. With this in mind, AWDC is taking the necessary initiatives in collaboration with all partners involved. “Sound and reliable financing is crucial for the continuity and leadership of the Antwerp diamond sector,” says Margaux Donckier.