Mining boom could herald commodity 'supercycle'
by Jillian Ambrose Energy correspondent from Environment | The Guardian on (#5EAAN)
Analysis: soaring price of copper and nickel raises hopes for investments in clean energy
It is known as a supercycle" - and there have only been four in the past century. The term defines periods when commodity prices enjoy an extended boom, and this week's multibillion-dollar windfalls for mining company investors suggest a fifth supercycle is on its way.
Indeed, there are signs it may have already begun. In recent weeks the price of iron ore, which is used to make steel, surged by more than 85% to reach highs not seen in almost 10 years.
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