1. **Coltan is a key resource**: Coltan, a combination of columbite and tantalite, is a mineral used primarily in the production of capacitors for electronic devices like mobile phones and laptops due to its ability to store and release electrical charge. Its properties make it valuable in creating components in aerospace, medical implant devices, and other advanced technologies. 2. **Mainly found in Central Africa**: Around 80% of the world’s known coltan supply is found in the African country of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, it can also be found in other countries such as Rwanda, Brazil, and Australia. 3. **Linked to conflict**: Coltan is often referred to as a conflict mineral due to the conditions it is mined under. In the DRC, the mining of coltan has frequently been linked to armed groups, including those involved in the nation’s civil war, who exploit the trade to fund their activities. 4. **Child Labor and Exploitation**: Coltan mining in the DRC is also associated with serious ethical concerns, including child labor and human rights abuses. Young children are often exploited and forced to work in dangerous conditions to extract the mineral. 5. **Environmental Impact**: The mining of coltan can have a profound impact on local ecosystems. Forests are often destroyed to make way for mines, affecting wildlife and local communities who depend on these ecosystems for their livelihood. Such mining activities also cause soil erosion and water pollution. Efforts are now being made to encourage responsible and sustainable mining practices in the industry. In response to these issues, several global initiatives have been launched to track the origins of coltan and ensure it is not contributing to conflict or human rights abuses. Examples include the Dodd-Frank Act in the USA and the standards established by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

1. Coltan is a derived substance: Coltan is a combination of two minerals- columbite and tantalite. Its name 'coltan' is derived from this combination. The ore yields tantalum, an element used in modern electronic devices. 2. Popular usage:...

China continues to exert more control over its strategic resources after announcing new export controls on Antimony, a mineral used in batteries for electric cars and smartphones. By doing this, Beijing is securing its dominance over the global supply chain of this critical commodity. Antimony is used to harden other metals and in flameproofing materials, as well as in the manufacturing of microelectronics and military grade equipment. This move is seen as a part of China’s larger strategy to enhance its geopolitical and economic power. It reflects a broader pattern of China attempting to leverage its natural resource wealth to exert influence internationally. The Chinese government has previously used its control over rare earth elements as a tool in diplomatic disputes. Countries and businesses that rely on Antimony will now have to navigate these tighter controls, which could potentially cause delays and drive up costs. This new regulation could also foster a push by other countries to develop their own domestic Antimony resources or to seek other international suppliers to reduce reliance on China. Overall, this decision by China serves as a reminder of its significant role in the global supply chain and its ability to potentially disrupt critical industries.

China has recently implemented new export controls on strategic minerals, particularly antimony, a key material used in semiconductors and batteries, among other technologies. The controls aim to maintain China's hold on valuable mineral resources, which account for a...

Great! It appears that a significant new discovery of uranium has been made at the Big Lake Uranium Project in South Australia. What additional information or assistance do you need? I can provide more details or updates about the discovery, mining industry, economic implications and, more.

Havilah Resources has reported a significant new discovery of widespread uranium mineralization at their Big Lake Uranium Project in South Australia. The project is positioned favorably within the Olympic Dam iron oxide copper-gold-uranium (IOCGU) province, which is one...

Investing in physical gold can have many advantages, and here are some practical insights and strategies that retail investors can consider: 1. **Investment Vehicles**: You can physically invest in gold by buying gold bars, coins, or jewelry. These can be purchased from various banks, jewelers, or online platforms. 2. **Storage and Insurance**: Ensure that you have a secure place to store your gold. Some investors use a bank safety deposit box, while others invest in a high-security home safe. It’s also important to consider insuring your gold against theft or loss. 3. **Purity**: The value of gold is in its purity. Always insist on buying 24-carat gold, which is the purest form. Check the hallmark on the gold items to confirm their purity. 4. **Understanding the Market** : Much like other assets, the price of gold is driven by supply and demand, including speculative demand. The price of gold often rises when the economy is doing poorly, making it a good hedge against economic downturns. 5. **Diversification**: Gold investment can certainly provide a degree of portfolio diversification. It can be a safe haven asset, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. However, don’t put all of your investment eggs into one gold basket. 6. **Long-term Investment**: Historical data shows that gold appreciates over long periods of time. Consider investing in gold for the long term and not just to make quick profits in the short term. 7. **Understand the costs**: Apart from the cost of buying gold, you may also have to bear additional costs for its storage and insurance. Additionally, be aware of the transaction costs, which can impact your overall returns. Remember, as with any investing, it’s wise to discuss your strategy with a financial advisor.

Investing in physical gold can be an attractive option as it allows investors to have a tangible asset that they can physically hold and possess. However, investing in gold isn't as straightforward as it might sound. Here are...

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