Arent't you reading more into this than there is?

Perhaps his usefullness has just run out. More of the public is slowly realizing what is happening and this person's comments are no longer helpful and perhaps harmfull to Kitco's business.

Alternatively, Kitco management themselves are slowly turning to the other side and dumping undesired associations to make the transition easier.
Or both of these apply?

Germany wanting their gold back is a sure sign of big changes coming as is China's buying. Kitco among others are noticing undeniable signs and must adapt or perish.

The only thing that gets me is - How come Germany gave in to their gold being repatriated over such a long time?
Had they insisted that all of their gold come back within a year all hell would have gone beserk.
That must be why, they do not want to upset the apple cart before they have possession of their gold.
Ditto for China - accumulate while it can be done cheaply.

These are the reasons US and the west are still allowed to postpone the inevitable.

All in my humble opinion.