Aug 12, 2025
Don't Miss: PGMs in the Spotlight at the Kyoto Conference
Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) are entering a new era, shaped by clean energy transitions, industrial innovation, and growing emphasis on recycling.
Our fourth session at the LBMA/LPPM Global Precious Metals Conference - 'PGMs in the Spotlight: Market Demand Meets Recycling Innovation' - will explore how these critical metals are being redefined in today’s evolving landscape.
Moderator: Dr Jonathan Butler (Head of Business Development & Strategy, Mitsubishi Corporation)
Since joining Mitsubishi in 2013, Dr. Butler has been instrumental in shaping the company’s global precious metals research and market strategy. Prior to Mitsubishi, he worked in precious metals marketing at Johnson Matthey. He holds a PhD from the University of Edinburgh and Master’s degrees from the University of Oxford.
Jonathan currently serves as President of the International Precious Metals Institute (IPMI), Vice Chair of the London Platinum and Palladium Market (LPPM), and sits on the Public Affairs Committee of LBMA.
Dr. Katsuhiko Hirose
(CEO & Chief Consultant, HyWealth Co)
Dr. Hirose is a pioneer behind the Toyota Prius and a global leader in hydrogen and fuel cell technology. As a founding member and co-chairman of the Hydrogen Council, he promotes hydrogen as a clean energy solution. He’s also a visiting professor at Kyushu University, focusing on environmental tech integration. His work highlights the crucial role of platinum group metals in clean mobility.
Taketomo Washida
(Managing Director, Tokuriki Honten)
Taketomo Washida is Managing Director at Tokuriki Honten, Japan’s oldest precious metals refinery. With over 30 years at MUFG Bank in capital markets and treasury, he brings deep finance and trading expertise. This experience supports his focus on refining and recycling precious metals, offering valuable insights into the evolving PGM market and sustainability.