SYDNEY — Australians consumed just 9.8 litres of pure alcohol per capita in 2023–24, the latest official figures show, continuing a long-term decline in drinking habits that health experts say is accelerating in 2026 amid heightened wellness awareness and generational shifts.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported 217.1 million litres of pure alcohol available for consumption nationwide in the 2023–24 financial year, a 3.7 per cent decrease from 225.5 million litres the previous period. Per capita availability fell from 10.5 litres in 2022–23 to 9.8 litres, one of the lowest levels recorded in recent decades.

Industry projections for the 2025–26 period forecast total alcohol consumption rising modestly by 1.7 per cent to approximately 236.5 megalitres, driven almost entirely by population growth rather than any rebound in individual drinking. Per capita figures are expected to hover near or slightly below 10 litres, with some analysts predicting a further 0.6 per cent decline.

Younger Australians are at the forefront of the change. A Flinders University study examining more than two decades of data from over 23,000 participants found Generation Z nearly 20 times more likely to abstain from alcohol than Baby Boomers, even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors. Weekly consumption has fallen across younger cohorts, though occasional binge drinking persists in some groups.

The National Drug Strategy Household Survey reinforces the pattern. About 77 per cent of Australians aged 14 and over reported drinking in the past 12 months, but daily drinking has dropped to 5.4 per cent. Risky drinking levels — exceeding national guidelines for long-term harm — affected 32.3 per cent of adults over 18 in 2022–23, down from 40.2 per cent two decades earlier. Underage drinking has plummeted, with only 31 per cent of 14- to 17-year-olds consuming alcohol in the previous year, compared with 69 per cent in 2001.

Health authorities link the decline to multiple drivers. Greater public awareness of alcohol’s connections to cancer, liver disease and mental health issues has prompted many to cut back. Updated national guidelines emphasize lower intake, while cost-of-living pressures make premium or frequent drinking less affordable. Sales of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages have surged nearly 20 per cent in recent periods, with no-alcohol beer and spirits gaining strong traction, especially among those under 35.

Market data reflects these shifts. The Australian alcoholic beverages sector reached USD 33.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 2.14 per cent through 2034, reaching about USD 40.3 billion. Growth comes primarily from premiumisation — consumers opting for higher-quality or craft products — and innovation in ready-to-drink options rather than increased volume. Beer remains dominant but full-strength varieties face headwinds, while low- and no-alcohol lines now account for around 9 per cent of the market.

Wine exports tell a similar story. The value of Australian wine shipments fell 8 per cent in 2025 to A$2.34 billion, hurt by softer global demand and domestic moderation trends. Exports to China, a key market, dropped 17 per cent. Domestically, winemakers contend with oversupply, leading some regions to rationalize vineyards.

Ready-to-drink beverages and spirits have shown more resilience. Roy Morgan data indicated that 64.9 per cent of adults aged 18 and over consumed alcohol in an average four-week period in the year to September 2025, a slight dip from pandemic highs but with RTDs continuing to grow in popularity. Off-premise channels, including supermarkets and bottle shops, now handle about 60 per cent of sales as more people drink at home.

Despite overall progress, challenges remain. Alcohol continues to contribute significantly to the burden of disease, accounting for 4.1 per cent of total disability-adjusted life years in recent Australian Burden of Disease studies. Men in their 60s report higher rates of risky consumption at 44 per cent, while those in their 50s sit at 32.3 per cent — above the national average of 30.7 per cent for adults over 18. Women in their 50s show 28 per cent risky drinking levels.

One in five Australians experienced some form of harm — verbal, physical or fear-based — from someone else’s drinking in recent survey periods, with women reporting increased exposure. Road accidents, hospitalisations and family violence linked to alcohol remain public health priorities.

Government policies aim to support moderation. Excise taxes on alcohol increase twice yearly, raising prices and discouraging heavy use. Campaigns promoting “dry” months or mindful drinking have gained traction, particularly among men seeking improved energy, sleep and mental clarity. Some workplaces now routinely offer alcohol-free social events.

Industry players are adapting. Major brewers, distillers and winemakers have expanded low- and no-alcohol portfolios to capture the moderation market. Craft producers focus on unique experiences and quality to justify premium pricing. Retailers note regional variations: stronger preferences for traditional full-strength beer persist in Victoria and Tasmania, while lighter options perform better in Queensland and Western Australia.

Demographic divides stand out clearly. Older Australians, especially those over 70, maintain higher weekly consumption patterns, though even this group has reduced intake modestly over time. Men continue to drink more heavily on average than women. Socioeconomic status and geographic remoteness also influence habits, with wastewater analysis studies sometimes revealing higher consumption in certain regional areas.

Public health experts view the trends as encouraging but stress the need for sustained effort. The 2019–2028 National Alcohol Strategy set targets for reducing harmful consumption, including a 10 per cent drop in risky single-occasion and lifetime drinking. While progress has been made, pockets of heavy use persist, particularly among middle-aged and older cohorts.

Educators and community groups highlight the value of early intervention. Later initiation of drinking — the average age rising from 14.7 years in 2001 to 16.1 years in recent data — correlates with lower lifetime risk. Schools and parents increasingly discuss alcohol openly, moving away from earlier normalisation of underage drinking.

As 2026 progresses, the cultural conversation around alcohol continues evolving. More Australians, especially younger ones, view sobriety or moderation as empowering rather than restrictive. Fitness trends, mental health awareness and social media discussions about “sober curious” lifestyles amplify the shift.

For the alcohol industry, adaptation is key. Those investing in innovation and lower-alcohol alternatives are better positioned to thrive in a market where volume growth is limited but value can still be found through premium and functional beverages.

Health organisations continue advocating for stronger measures, including tighter advertising restrictions and minimum unit pricing, to accelerate gains. They point to the clear public health dividend: fewer hospital admissions, reduced violence and lower long-term disease burden.

In summary, Australia’s alcohol consumption landscape in 2026 reflects a maturing society increasingly prioritising health over heavy drinking. With per capita intake at historic lows and younger generations leading by example, the trajectory points toward continued moderation — even as total market value grows through smarter, more selective consumption.

The latest figures offer cautious optimism. While alcohol-related harm has not vanished, measurable progress over two decades demonstrates that cultural and policy changes can reshape deeply ingrained habits. Ongoing monitoring by the AIHW and other bodies will track whether the downward per capita trend holds as economic and social pressures evolve.

Key Statistics at a Glance:

• Per capita pure alcohol: 9.8 litres (2023–24)
• Total pure alcohol available: 217.1 million litres (2023–24, down 3.7%)
• Past-year drinkers (14+): 77%
• Daily drinkers: 5.4%
• Risky long-term drinking (18+): 32.3% (down from 40.2% in 2004)
• Underage (14–17) past-year drinking: 31% (down from 69% in 2001)
• Gen Z abstention likelihood: Nearly 20 times higher than Baby Boomers

For the most current data, refer to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports and National Drug Strategy Household Survey releases.

This article was written by

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Gold and silver prices opened lower on the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) on Monday, as a stronger dollar and escalating tensions in the Middle East weighed on sentiment and dampened expectations of U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Tensions intensified on Sunday after US President Donald Trump issued a sharply worded Easter Sunday social media post directed at Tehran. He warned that Iran’s power plants and bridges could be targeted on Tuesday if the strategic Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

MCX silver futures due May 2026 were down Rs 2,030 or 1% to Rs 2,30,465 per kg. Meanwhile, gold futures for June 2026 delivery fell Rs 1,047 or 0.7% to Rs 1,48,633 per 10 grams. In the previous session, the white metal plunged nearly 5% while gold ended marginally lower.

In the international market, gold prices declined sharply on Monday, falling more than 1%. Spot gold dropped 1.2% to $4,620.68 per ounce as of 0047 GMT, while U.S. gold futures for April delivery slipped 0.7% to $4,647.10. Meanwhile, spot silver also moved lower, declining 1% to $72.28 per ounce.

Market expectations around monetary policy have shifted significantly, with traders now largely pricing out the possibility of any rate cuts this year. Prior to the Iran war, there were expectations of two rate reductions during the year.

How should you trade gold?

Manoj Kumar Jain of Prithvi Finmart said precious metals are witnessing heightened volatility, although both gold and silver are expected to hold key support levels in the near term. He noted that silver could sustain above $62 per troy ounce, while gold may hold the $4,420 level on a closing basis this week.
He added that prices are likely to remain volatile amid fluctuations in the dollar index, crude oil prices, and the ongoing US-Iran conflict. For the current session, gold has support in the $4,620–4,580 range and resistance at $4,720–4,770 per troy ounce. Silver, meanwhile, has support at $70.70–68.00 and resistance at $76.00–78.40 per troy ounce.
On the domestic front, he said gold on MCX has support at Rs 1,47,200–1,45,500 and resistance at Rs 1,51,100–1,53,350. Silver is seen finding support at Rs 2,28,000–2,22,400, while resistance is placed at Rs 2,37,700–2,42,200.

Jain advised investors to consider booking profits in long positions on every rise and to wait for corrective dips before initiating fresh long positions in gold and silver.

Gold rates in physical markets

Gold Price today in Delhi

Standard gold (22 carat) prices in Delhi stand at Rs 1,10,792/8 grams while pure gold (24 carat) prices stand at Rs 1,20,856/8 grams.

Gold Price today in Mumbai

Standard gold (22 carat) prices in Mumbai stand at Rs 1,10,672/8 grams while pure gold (24 carat) prices stand at Rs 1,20,736/8 grams.

Gold Price today in Chennai

Standard gold (22 carat) prices in Chennai stand at Rs 1,11,592/8 grams while pure gold (24 carat) prices stand at Rs 1,21,736/8 grams.

Gold Price today in Hyderabad

Standard gold (22 carat) prices in Hyderabad stand at Rs 1,10,672/8 grams while pure gold (24 carat) prices stand at Rs 1,20,736/8 grams.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

LISBON, Portugal — Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent hamstring injury has sparked debate over whether the 41-year-old superstar can deliver peak performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, though Portugal coach Roberto Martinez and club updates suggest the setback poses minimal long-term threat to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s participation or output.

Ronaldo sustained the right hamstring injury on Feb. 28, 2026, during Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League match against Al-Fayha, forcing him to limp off the field. The club initially described it as a muscle issue requiring rehabilitation, with early estimates of two to four weeks sidelined. Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus later noted the injury appeared more serious than first thought after further tests, prompting Ronaldo to travel to Madrid for specialized treatment.

The timing raised eyebrows. With the World Cup set to kick off June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico, the injury came just months before what could be Ronaldo’s sixth and final appearance on football’s grandest stage. He missed Portugal’s March friendlies against Mexico and the United States as a precaution, heightening concerns among fans about his fitness at an age when recovery typically slows.

Yet recent developments paint a more optimistic picture. By early April 2026, Ronaldo had returned to full training with Al-Nassr. On April 3, he marked his comeback in style, scoring a brace — including a penalty and a powerful strike — in a 5-2 victory over Al-Najma. The performance pushed his official career goal tally to 967, edging closer to the landmark 1,000. Fabrizio Romano and other reporters confirmed Ronaldo is now available for club duty and expected to rejoin the Portugal squad without issue.

Martinez has repeatedly downplayed the concerns. “Cristiano’s injury is similar to those of Ruben Dias and Nelson Semedo. He is recovering well, and this is not an issue that should raise doubts about his participation in the World Cup,” the coach said after Portugal’s warm-up matches. He emphasized that the squad has about 60 days to monitor all players and described the problem as a minor muscle injury, not a threat to Ronaldo’s place. “The World Cup is not at risk. He is not at risk,” Martinez added.

Ronaldo himself shared positive updates on social media, posting gym photos with the caption “Getting better every day.” His legendary work ethic — often cited as the foundation of his longevity — remains evident. Even at 41, he maintains elite conditioning through rigorous routines, a factor Martinez highlighted when praising the forward’s physical shape this season.

The injury’s potential impact on performance is multifaceted. Hamstring strains can affect speed, acceleration and explosive movements critical for a striker like Ronaldo, who relies on bursts to beat defenders and finish chances. A grade 1 or mild grade 2 strain typically heals within weeks with proper rehab, but incomplete recovery risks re-injury or reduced sharpness. At Ronaldo’s age, experts note that muscle resilience diminishes, making prevention and gradual return essential.

Portugal’s Group K includes DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia, with matches starting June 17 against DR Congo in Houston. Ronaldo scored five goals during qualifying, underscoring his enduring value. While younger talents like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leao provide creative firepower, Ronaldo’s leadership, aerial ability and penalty prowess remain central to Portugal’s ambitions. Many analysts argue the team plays with greater confidence when their captain is on the pitch, even if his starting minutes are managed.

Historical context bolsters optimism. Ronaldo has overcome numerous injuries throughout his career, including hamstring issues at Real Madrid and Juventus. His ability to return stronger — often through sheer determination and science-backed recovery — is well-documented. In the Saudi Pro League this season, he has been Al-Nassr’s top scorer with 23 goals in 22 appearances before the layoff, demonstrating sustained form.

Still, some observers caution that cumulative wear could influence his World Cup output. Ronaldo has played over 1,200 senior matches, a staggering workload. Reduced explosiveness might limit his pressing or late-game impact, prompting Martinez to rotate more or deploy him as a focal point rather than a constant runner. Portugal’s depth allows flexibility; the side advanced comfortably without him in March friendlies.

Public reaction mixes concern with unwavering faith. Social media buzzed with #Ronaldo2026 hashtags during his absence, while his comeback brace quieted many doubters. Supporters point to his record: top scorer in qualifying, consistent club contributions and unmatched mental fortitude. Critics, however, highlight the realities of age, noting that even icons like Lionel Messi have seen physical decline in later years.

Medical perspectives vary. Typical hamstring recovery timelines suggest Ronaldo should be fully fit by mid-April, giving him nearly two months of competitive play before the tournament. Strength and conditioning programs focusing on eccentric loading and flexibility will be key to rebuilding confidence in the muscle. Portugal’s medical staff will collaborate closely with Al-Nassr to ensure a seamless transition.

Beyond individual performance, the injury narrative underscores broader themes in modern football: player longevity, load management and the balance between club and country duties. Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in 2023 drew scrutiny over competitive level, yet he has thrived, using the league as a platform to chase records while preparing for international duty.

As April 2026 progresses, all eyes remain on Ronaldo’s minutes and output for Al-Nassr. A strong run of form would silence remaining doubts heading into Portugal’s final pre-tournament preparations. Martinez has made clear that selection hinges on current standards, not past glory — a benchmark Ronaldo has met throughout his career.

For Portugal, reaching the knockout stages and beyond depends on collective strength, but few doubt Ronaldo’s motivational role. Whether he starts every match or impacts as a substitute, his presence could prove decisive in tight contests against Colombia or in potential later rounds.

The 2026 World Cup offers Ronaldo a chance to add to his legacy as one of football’s greatest. While the hamstring episode briefly clouded the outlook, his swift return and positive signals suggest the setback will not significantly derail his performance. With months of monitoring ahead and his trademark dedication intact, the Portuguese icon appears on track to lead his nation once more on the global stage.

Football enthusiasts continue to debate the fine line between caution and optimism. Ronaldo’s body of work suggests he will arrive in North America ready to compete. As the tournament draws nearer, his fitness will be tracked daily, but early indications point to business as usual for one of the game’s most resilient figures.

Key Timeline:

• Feb. 28, 2026: Injury sustained vs. Al-Fayha
• March 2026: Missed Portugal friendlies
• Early April 2026: Returned to Al-Nassr training and scored brace
• June 11, 2026: World Cup begins

Portugal opens Group K play June 17 against DR Congo. For the latest on Ronaldo’s status and World Cup preparations, follow official FIFA and Portugal national team channels.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated legal action against fuel smugglers to Cambodia, citing national security. The government plans to review fuel pricing amid rising costs and secure adequate reserves.

---

Key Points

• Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered strict legal action against illegal fuel smuggling to Cambodia, emphasizing its threat to national security and forming a task force for investigations and arrests.
• The government is exploring measures to mitigate rising fuel prices, with Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas advocating for a review of refining and marketing margins, aiming to submit proposals to the Cabinet on April 6.
• Thailand’s fuel reserves can meet demand for about three months, while global oil prices remain volatile. Bangchak Corporation has produced 35,000 liters of B20 diesel for distribution at service stations within April.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered strict legal action against those involved in smuggling fuel to Cambodia following the discovery of an illegal cross-border network. The premier directed the formation of a task force to investigate and arrest those responsible, warning that such activities would be treated as a threat to national security.

The order comes as the government considers measures to ease the impact of rising fuel prices. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has called for a review of refining and marketing margins to help lower retail prices, with proposals set to be submitted to the Cabinet on April 6. The review includes reassessing cost calculations and setting appropriate margins.

Officials are also examining pricing components, including a war-related premium linked to tensions in the Middle East. Authorities said some costs currently included in fuel pricing may not fully align with actual supply conditions, as refineries source crude oil from multiple regions.

The Ministry of Energy reported that Thailand’s fuel reserves are sufficient for about 3 months of demand, with additional supplies being secured. Global oil prices remain volatile, while domestic diesel production continues to fall slightly short of consumption. The Oil Fuel Fund remains in deficit as subsidies are used to manage price pressures.

Separately, Bangchak Corporation has produced an initial batch of 35,000 liters of B20 diesel, which will be distributed through depots and made available at service stations within April for use in large diesel engines. 

Source : Thai PM Orders Crackdown on Fuel Smuggling to Cambodia

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Amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty and persistent FII outflows, market valuations have started to turn favourable, offering a potential cushion for equities.

In an interaction with Kshitij Anand of ETMarkets, Harendra Kumar, Managing Director at Elara Capital, noted that the Nifty has entered a “bounce zone,” trading below its 10-year average valuation—a level that has historically acted as a strong support for markets.

He believes that while external shocks have weighed on sentiment, India’s underlying macro fundamentals remain resilient, and a swift de-escalation in geopolitical tensions could trigger a sharp rebound, setting the stage for a recovery in FY27. Edited Excerpts –

Q) Thanks for taking the time out. FY26 returns have turned negative due to geopolitical concerns around West Asia. How do you sum up the financial year?

A) FY26 was a year in which resilient domestic macro-economic fundamentals were overshadowed by external shocks. US reciprocal tariffs, AI disruption for Indian IT stocks and now the West Asian crisis has hemorrhaged the markets.

Given that the shocks are exogenous – flows have been severely impacted. Outflows at USD 19.7bn has been debilitating. However, there is a silver lining.

With all the noise of the INR depreciation and resultant worries – it has become reasonably valued. The trend of outflows should reverse at some point during the fiscal given this backdrop.

Q) As we head towards FY27, what are the key triggers investors should keep in mind that could lead to a market reversal or return of bullish sentiment?
A) Over the last two years valuations had been our Achilles heel. After the sharp cuts – the Nifty is in a bounce zone. At ~17.3x, Nifty trades 7% below its 10-year average of ~18.6x, placing it in a historical “bounce zone”.
Outside of extreme disruptions like COVID-19, this level usually acted as a floor for valuation. Even during the Russia–Ukraine conflict, despite Brent sustaining above USD 100/bbl, Nifty multiples bounced back from 10-year rolling averages.This is a big positive. With strong fundamentals – a quick de-escalation should see a whipsaw in the markets.

Q) Which sectors should be on investors’ radar for FY27?
A) Large-cap auto stocks, have corrected sharply, witnessing a ~17% drawdown since the onset of the US-Iran conflict. While near-term concerns persist around input cost pressures from elevated commodity prices and potential demand moderation in the event of a prolonged conflict triggering an inflation shock for consumers, underlying retail data remains robust and encouraging.

Additionally, 18 out of the 19 utility stocks under our coverage have outperformed the Nifty 50 in current drawdown, underscoring the sector’s relative resilience.

The escalating conflict is expected to accelerate India’s electrification cycle, while surging data centre capex is driving incremental power demand.

This positive backdrop is further supported by the likely passage of the New Electricity Amendment Bill, which will unlock structural reforms in the sector.

Consequently, power generation, transmission, distribution, and data centre-linked plays are emerging not merely as defensive anchors but as clear structural beneficiaries in the medium to long term.

Q) How should one approach gold and silver in the new financial year?
A) Gold is store of value and should stay that way. At some levels its also viewed as hedge. There could be a bounce trade once the dollar starts to weaken again but beyond that I am not sure whether we are going to see a rally like last year.

For country that is witnessing strong nominal growth and emergence of new sectors – stronger compounding exists in equities.

Q) Do you think there are certain sectors that have already corrected and are now available at attractive valuations?
A) Beyond Auto and Power – IT services, Banks and real estate offer meaningful valuation comfort.

Banks trade at ~1.4x P/B (FY28E), a ~31% discount to their 10-year median. Autos, post the recent correction, are at ~19.5x, about a 5% discount to the 5-year median, offering an attractive entry point.

IT services also stand out, at ~16.4x FY28 P/E, the sector trades at a 20%/31% discount to its 10-year/5-year medians, respectively. With no material disruption to revenue streams and margins so far from the AI transition, the medium-term risk-reward appears attractive.

Q) How are we positioned against peers in terms of valuations?
A) India still trades at a premium to peers, but the gap has normalised meaningfully from 2024 extremes. The MSCI India premium to MSCI EM has moderated to ~60%, closer to its 10-year average, from peaks above 100% in August 2024, indicating that excess froth has largely been corrected.

Even so, on a 2-year forward P/E basis, India at 15.7x remains above MSCI EM at 10.3x. This premium is partly justified by stronger fundamentals.

India offers ~22% USD EPS CAGR over CY25–27E with ~15.7% ROE, at par with most global markets. In contrast, China trades cheaper but with lower returns (~10.4% ROE), while Korea’s low valuations reflect a more cyclical and concentrated earnings profile.

Overall, India remains a premium market, but the premium now appears more aligned with its growth visibility, return profile, and macro stability.

Q) Will FII flows reverse in FY27? How are you interpreting both domestic and global flows?
A) Our base case is that FII flows can improve in FY27, but a sharp, linear reversal looks less likely.

Domestic fundamentals are turning supportive: nominal GDP is recovering, earnings growth is broadening, valuation premiums have moderated, and trade-related overhangs have eased.

Historically, FPI flows have tracked nominal growth cycles, which supports a gradual return. A durable reversal in FPI inflows will require three conditions: softer energy prices, a stable rupee, and continued earnings strength. Until then, flows are likely to improve in phases and remain episodic in nature.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)