Investors are returning to the junior resources sector on the back of growing confidence, sending the share prices of some Australian junior miners soaring by up to 700% during the past 12 months.
It comes as many commentators believe the global commodity market has hit the bottom of the cycle and prices continue to climb, signalling an end to the five-year slump.
Speaking ahead of the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Melbourne next month, Hedley Widdup, investment manager of listed mining investment firm Lion Selection Group, said the sector was benefiting from renewed interest and shaking off previous uncertainty.
“2015 was a tough year for most and the junior resources sector in Australia suffered for it,” Mr Widdup said.
“As of last month, junior explorers Northern Shield Resources and S2 Resources have grown their share prices more than 700% and 225% respectively, which is very promising.
“Often the biggest issue for junior miners is raising capital, but with these figures the tables are starting to turn going into the end of 2016, with plenty of interest from investors.
“And there are plenty more opportunities coming to fruition with some exciting opportunities for small gold miners in the advanced exploration and development space.”
Junior resources investment opportunities will be a focus at IMARC, with a dedicated Mining Hub where more than a dozen leading junior miners will be showcasing their projects and will be on the hunt for investment.
Complimentary passes are available for buy-side investors to attend IMARC, these passes can be claimed online at http://imarcmelbourne.com/minesandmoney/
Increases in the prices of commodities such as gold and coal, are prompting many investors to renew their interest in junior assets.
“From an investor’s perspective IMARC is a rare opportunity to meet face-to-face with emerging and established miners to share insights about each other’s priorities and objectives,” Mr Widdup said.
It’s also a prime opportunity to meet emerging junior mining companies and jump on board with some really exciting projects.”
IMARC 2016 will unite the global mining industry in Australia, bringing together more than 2,500 delegates from all aspects of the mining value chain worldwide.
Leading junior miners that will be in attendance include S2 Resources, Panoramic Resources, VIMY Resources, Northern Shield Resources, MATSA Resources, Peak Resources, Stavely Minerals, Centrex Metals, Galileo Resources and Rum Jungle Resources.
Over the four-day conference, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from over 130 speakers from around the world, covering topics including investment, technology and innovation, safety and sustainability, policy and framework.
IMARC 2016 will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 7-10 November.
More information at www.imarcmelbourne.com