Over the past decade, mining investment in Latin America has more than doubled, even after experiencing a sharp drop in 2009. According to a report by the Metals Economic Group, Latin America is now the primary destination for mining exploration investment in the world, with 25% of total investment going to Chile, Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Argentina.
Brazil's Eike Fuhrken Batista is the world of mining's richest man and he's been on a roll this year – until Tuesday when $1,023,200,000 disappeared from his personal fortune.
Mexico, the world’s largest silver producer, is expected to become the next source of “mega” gold projects as experts predict its bullion production will increase considerably in the next five years.
"What is more disconcerting is that while investors have over the past few weeks appeared cautious of running too short on gold, this fear looks to have evaporated."
When Kim got involved with Kazakhmys (then called ZhezkazganTsvetMet) during the 1990s the Soviet era the state company was in complete disarray and debt laden. He turned Kazakhmys into a $6 billion company and amassed a personal fortune of $3.5 billion along the way.
The oil and natural gas rich nation's stake in the coal giant is now 8% with a target of over 10%, providing crucial back for Glencore CEO Ivan Glasenberg to push through the $90 billion merger with Xstrata.
Fearing a backlash by foreign investors in the mining sector – the foundation of the country's economy – Mongolian legislators on Tuesday watered down many of the provisions of draft legislation that gives the state greater control and ownership of mining projects.