Annual Report 2021
Communications and Engagement
Events
COVID-19 has restricted our ability to host in-person events during 2021. In September, we held our first in-person event in 18 months together with the London Platinum and Palladium Market (LPPM) — a networking reception in London during our virtual Precious Metals Conference, 20-21 September 2021.
Some 462 delegates digitally attended the Conference, which featured an exceptional line-up of speakers, panellists and guest chairs. Delegates participated in Q&A breakout sessions and speed networking, and predicted what precious metals prices would be at the start of the 2022 Conference in Lisbon (see table). Delegates were most bullish about the prospects of platinum, predicting a 41% increase in price.
Unfortunately, we had to cancel this year’s annual dinner, scheduled on 1 December, 2021 due to tightening COVID-19 restrictions in the UK and around the world following the discovery of the new ‘Omicron’ variant.
However, we were able to salvage the seminar planned earlier in the day and delivered the seminar virtually. This proved a great success and certainly helped make up for the disappointment of the dinner cancellation.
Keeping Members Informed
As the world continues to face up to the challenges of COVID-19, we have stepped up our lines of engagement and communication. We have liaised closely with key stakeholders throughout 2021 to ensure that the Loco London market continues to operate efficiently and effectively.
Our fortnightly webinar programme has featured a wide range of topical issues covering all sectors of the global precious metals market, whilst our weekly Newsletters have helped to keep Members and other interested audiences/non-Members up to date with all the latest news and market developments.
Website Relaunch
In March this year, we launched our redesigned website to make it easier for visitors to find their way around and to better showcase some of the industry-leading initiatives that we have been working on. We improved our site navigation, and launched new functionality and features such as the ability to download prices and data.
The relaunch also included a refresh to our Newsroom and Events page, where you can find our latest news, features and events. A new Press page provides a handy reference for journalists, including quick links to publications and resources that outline our key strategic priorities. We’ve also given our publications section a digital facelift.
Wonders Of Gold Exhibition
Earlier this year, we launched a digital exhibition entitled ‘The Wonders of Gold’ – curated by Stewart Murray, LBMA’s GDL Consultant.
The online exhibition showcases approximately 150 items from around the world. From the Bimaran Casket and Croesus Stater to the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb, this exhibition reveals a fascinating insight into the history of gold – and hints at its future. The earliest item in our timeline – the Birth of Gold – even predates the formation of our own solar system some 4.5 billion years ago.
The Wonders of Gold exhibition is available to view on our website.