LBMA Media Centre

Alchemist 71 is available online.    Read More

Portfolio compression, also known as multilateral early termination, of OTC derivative portfolios has arrived in the precious metals derivatives market and is gaining traction. In March 2013, TriOptima completed the first portfolio compression cycle for precious metals forwards and swaps, terminating $7.2 billion in notional principal outstandings. Six institutions were able to reduce their gross positions in gold and silver, unlocking regulatory capital and reducing collateral requirements. Additional precious metals cycles are scheduled for later this year.   Read More

Silver industrial demand has gone through a difficult period in recent years. The 2008 global recession and subsequent sluggish economic recovery have impacted end-use demand in a number of key industrial sectors. In addition, high and volatile silver prices have incentivised manufacturers to thrift on the use of silver in a range of applications. While the economic impact on industrial offtake is cyclical in nature, thrifting in practice is rarely reversed and effectively results in demand destruction.  Read More

Three simple words: ‘Recycle, Refine, Remanufacture’ was the major theme that process chemist Robert G. Surash of Rochester Silver Works, LLC (RSW) presented at the 37th IPMI June 2013 Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Robert’s presentation focused on these three processes and the connectivity to RSW’s operations that culminates in the production of high-grade (ACS-certified) invariantquality silver nitrate.  Read More

Degussa will present selected pieces from its collection of precious metals artefacts at the LBMA/LPPM Precious Metals Conference in Rome. It will offer delegates a time journey through 4,000 years of history..  Read More

Tim Green, in his recent publication ‘The London Good Delivery List: Building a Global Brand’ (2010), provided a detailed account of the expansion of the London refining industry following the ‘gold rushes’ that took place from the mid-19th century and resulted in many new refining houses and brokerages being established in London. Inspired by Tim’s research, Dr Michele Blagg built on these accounts for her own research. Here she presents a précis of her doctorial study into a bullion refining facility, the Royal Mint Refinery, operated by N M Rothschild & Sons between 1852-1967. The study, which focused on the interaction between Rothschild and the London gold market, reveals much about the significant players in the industry and contributes to the wider understanding of the current renaissance for gold.   Read More

The LBMA is pleased to announce that more Good Delivery gold refiners have successfully passed its Responsible Gold Audit Programme.  Read More