Scarcest Precious Metal Platinum, one of the world's most beautiful metals is also one of the rarest about 100 times more rare than gold. Because platinum is both a vital industrial metal and one with limited sources of supply, it is considered a strategic metal. The former Soviet Union and South Africa account for about 90% of world primary platinum production. Canada produces about 5% of the platinum supplies, and the bulk of domestic platinum supplies are obtained from reclaiming operations or import. Fears of supply interruptions have resulted in the U.S. Government holding platinum in the Strategic Stockpiles. The United states depends largely on foreign platinum supply. Since platinum is commonly found in conjunction with nickel, a costly refining process is necessary to recover even menial quantities of the metal from tons of ore. This is a primary reason for platinum's exceptionally high value. Combined with its rarity, the demand for platinum in the marketplace exceeds its free world supply, making it an extremely attractive investment opportunity.

 

Something of Value, Now and in the Future
In spite of its rarity, platinum has established a pattern as an excellent investment vehicle. Although gold and silver are the predominant precious metal holdings, there has been a significant increase in platinum investments over the past several years. During this period the price of platinum has risen to a high of over $1100 from its low of less than $200. Rapid demand growth and limited supplies have contributed to platinum's popularity with investors. Many investors in metals now include platinum in their portfolio. No wonder platinum is considered an excellent investment medium; it can act as a hedge against inflation as well as provide long or short term profit.

 

Prized for Many Reasons
Well known for its use in fine jewelry, platinum has a variety of strategic applications that add to its universal demand. Important for its catalytic properties, and resistance to corrosion, platinum plays a role in the manufacturing of gasoline, fiberglass and catalytic converters. It is also widely used in the electrical, chemical and medical industries. Growth in platinum consumption worldwide is expected to increase tremendously. Usage in established markets is increasing and new markets are constantly being developed; factors that promise to keep demand for platinum high and investment potential good.