Nickel

In a ruling that will have ramifications for rare earth supplies, the World Trade Organization ruled today that China is improperly restricting the export of minerals.

Newt Gingrich, presidential aspirant in the current Republican contest, wants to see a permanent moon base established by the second term of his presidency that could be used for space tourism and mining ventures.

Global supplies of rare earth elements have been threatened ever since China imposed export quotas in mid-2010. In the aftermath, increased attention was drawn to potential producers like MolyCorp and Lynas Corporation, while the sector was viewed in need of a savior outside of China. Among the juniors aiming to join the fray, Medallion Resources has proposed a unique strategy to gain low-cost production in the very near term.

RBC Capital Markets forecasts copper demand growth of 3.6% in 2011, 5.5% in 2012, 5.6% in 2013, and trend growth of approximately 4.0% in 2014 and 2015.

With confirmation of the discovery of two strategic minerals, vanadium and graphite, Energizer Resources says it "is now well positioned to move forward to mine development"

Reuters reports that Toyota has developed a technology to substitute rare earths used in its hybrid vehicles. The company, which has a strong lead in environmentally friendlier car sales around the world said it would be able to bring the technology to market within two years if REE prices don't fall.

Bloomberg reports that Ivanplats Ltd., an Africa-focused mining company controlled by billionaire CEO Robert Friedland, may seek up to $1 billion in an IPO.

The share price performance of those non-Chinese rare earth miners closest to production – Molycorp in the US, Australia's Lynas and Great Western Minerals in South Africa – is in stark contrast to what is happening to rare earth oxide prices, some of which have more than halved over the last three months.

Quadra FNX Mining (TSX:QUX) has updated the resource at its Victoria Mine in Ontario, Canada.