Interesting read about the power shortage in Africa causing the shutdown of several large gold and platinum mines.

Both gold and platinum prices hit record highs on Friday as a result. The article states that Africa is the largest producer of Platinum in the world. Gold Fields, which operates the largest gold mines in the world was mentioned as one of the big three mines having to suspend work on Friday over worries that miners may get trapped underground due to power outages.

I do believe there are several other factor's contributing to the high gold and platinum prices, which over the long run will benefit companies like NOT.

Some interesting reads about what's going on with the US Federal policies and decsions are Jim Sinclair and Peter Schifft. Both appear quite negatvie with respect to the US $ and quite bullish over the near to medium term on gold and other precious metals.