Aug 6 (Reuters) - Anglo-Swiss miner Xstrata Plc (XTA.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) launched on Wednesday a $10 billion takeover bid for the world’s number three platinum producer, Lonmin (LMI.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), in an attempt to diversify its business from industrial metals such as copper.
Platinum prices soared to record highs earlier this year amid fears over a supply shortage in major producer South Africa. Although prices have since eased, they remain historically high.
Below is the latest available annual output of the world’s top producers of refined platinum.
1. ANGLO PLATINUM (AMSJ.J: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz)
- Refined platinum output from Angloplat, the world’s largest producer, was 2.47 million ounces in 2007, down 12 percent from the previous year.
- The dip was partly a reflection of lower mine supply, which fell 6 percent, the company said.
- Due to South Africa’s ongoing power problems, Angloplat, which is majority owned by Anglo American PLC (AAL.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), has forecast a further decline in refined platinum output this year to 2.4 million ounces.
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