A fundamental choice for Critical Minerals development: "Fascism or radical democracy?"

The global demand for critical minerals like lithium and copper is surging, but how we attempt to quickly extract them, argues Katherine Teh , Executive Chairman of Spektrum Development , presents a fundamental choice: embrace authoritarian tactics that disregard communities or pursue transparent, consent-based development. In this pivotal moment, the stakes are high-ranging, from environmental destruction to lost economic potential. Which path should be chosen? Katherine Teh of Spektrum Development addressing the 2024 ACFID Conference WE ARE AT a crossroads in the energy transition. The gap between what the mining industry promises and what it delivers has been widening, creating not only delays but the potential for significant socio-economic and environmental risks. As the demand for critical minerals like copper, graphite, and lithium increases, we’re facing mounting challenges in securing these resources quickly enough to support the transition to renewable energy. The Problem...

New investment fund for Mongolian coal projects

Origo Partners, an AIM-listed private equity firm focused on China-linked core economic growth opportunities, has opened a new office in the Mongolian capital of Ulan Bator and created a new fund, Origo Altai Partners, to invest in the country.

Origo sees Mongolia as a country of significant mineral wealth with resources encompassing gold, iron ore, molybdenum, uranium, oil, copper and coal and exploration licenses covering a third of the country’s approximately more than 1.5 million sqkm land area.

The country’s proximity to key markets in northern China enables the supply of commodities at a comparatively low cost and this competitive advantage will be underpinned by the ongoing development of rail infrastructure in China and anticipated rail approvals and construction in Mongolia.

Last November, Origo took a 21% stake in Mongolian mining company Gobi Coal and Energy for a total of $15 million. Headquartered in the country’s capital, Gobi holds significant coal resources, leaving it well positioned to capitalise on growing demands from China.