Newmont Goldcorp to halt operations at Mexico mine due to blockade

Traders are closely following Sunday’s poll in Ukraine's Crimea region, as its results could further increase geopolitical tensions and hence affect gold prices.

"It's just a method of transmitting money."

Pulls back from 6-month high of $1,388 set in morning trade, but up for the week.

The figure includes salary, a cash bonus, shares and other benefits for the man who was able to take Rio Tinto from a US$3 billion loss to a US$3.7 billion profit in a year.

The miner may lay off 400 workers at its Romanian subsidiary unless prospects for its Rosia Montana gold and silver mine improve.

The Great White North and especially the Yukon were the “place to be” for juniors just a few short years ago.

But could change payments technology.

Developments in China and Ukraine are likely the driving forces.

The new law also lets the state to acquire an unspecified additional share at an “agreed price,” among other debated changes.