MINING

– In 2003, four mining shares rose over four times in price, with one gaining ten times.- In just the first two months of 2004, 26 mining shares increased more than 20%, with five shares doubling.- Merrill Lynch’s World Mining Trust is the UK’s best performing fund over the past three years, having risen by over 200 per cent. But is the mining boom about to end? Not according to this book, by Michael Coulson, Chairman of the Association of Mining Analysts. Coulson argues that, if anything, we are still in the early stages of prolonged strength in mining stocks and despite what some commentators are saying, the boom is far from over. The prospect of instant riches gives the mining sector an obvious glamour. And when the mining sector begins to run it can be an awesome sight and the excitement generated can be every bit as seductive and heady as that which enveloped markets during the internet boom. But due to the counter-cyclical nature of many mining stocks, they can also offer a valuable refuge when stock markets turn down. In this book, Michael Coulson gives a masterly overview of the sector, explains both the rewards and the pitfalls of investing in mining shares and argues convincingly that mining should once again form a core sector for all investors. The book is for anyone interested in mining, and particularly mining as an investment. Whilst it contains material which will be useful to even experienced followers of the sector, its main target is those who are interested in mining but perhaps not particularly familiar with the sector, and would like to know more. All the subjects are covered that are fundamental to acquiring sufficient knowledge about the mining sector to invest in it with confidence.

pp.. 244 #270723