Released on: January 25, 2008, 7:32 am

Press Release Author: Alford & Sons Investments

Industry: Financial

Press Release Summary: Platinum has continued to hit record highs recently off the
back of expectations that demand for the metal used as a catalyst in automobiles
will stay strong in 2008, a sentiment reportedly shared by Analysts at US Investment
brokerage Alford & Sons.

Press Release Body: Indicators suggest robust automobile production for the next
year, as consumer spending power continues its rapid increase is fast developing
nations like China \" said Terry Burke, a senior analyst at Alford & Sons
Investments (ASI) . \"Additionally, supply-side concerns and tighter emission
controls in the US will provide further positive momentum for Platinum.\"
Global inventories of platinum have grown increasingly tight as automakers try to
meet demand, particularly in booming regions, namely Asia and Eastern Europe.
Meanwhile, in South Africa, a major platinum producer, mine equipment problems,
accidents and maintenance have contributed to a production decline this year.
Demand for platinum, used in catalytic converters in automotive exhaust systems as
well as Jewellery, has also surged due to tighter emissions standards. Congress
recently approved an energy bill that calls for the first increase in automobile
fuel economy (up 40% to 35 miles per gallon) in more than 30 years.
Furthermore, analysts at ASI have reportedly cited Efforts by the European Central
Bank and Bank of England to pump more than $500 billion into money markets to keep
banks flush with cash as a key factor boosting the price of precious metal
commodities overall.
Platinum prices climbed 31 percent in 2007 and have roughly doubled in four years.


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