Pacific North West Capital Reports Positive Platinum Metal Concentration Results for River Valley PGM Project near Sudbury, Ontario

VANCOUVER, Feb. 26, 2013 /CNW/ - Pacific North West Capital Corp. (TSX: PFN; OTCQX: PAWEF; Frankfurt: P7J) (the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered flow-through and non flow- through private placement of up to a combined 16,333,333 units for gross proceeds of up to $960,000.

Each non flow-through unit ("NFT Unit") at a price of $0.05 per unit will consist of one common share and one-half of one, non-transferable, share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 for a period of 18 months from the closing date.

Each flow-through unit ("FT Unit") at a price of $0.06 per unit will consist of one common flow-through share and one-half of one non flow-through, non-transferable, share purchase warrant. Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one additional non flow-through common share of the Company at $0.12 for a period of 18 months from the closing date.

The proceeds from the private placement received from the sale of the units will be used for the further development and exploration of the River Valley PGM Project and exploration of two large adjacent properties, all located in the Sudbury region of Ontario.

Indicative budget includes drilling untested and under tested drill targets in the footwall to the River Valley Intrusion at Dana North, drilling magma feeder features interpreted during 2012 exploration program ( Fig.1) and exploration on regional properties ( River Valley East and West).

The proceeds from the sale of NFT Units will be used as working capital and for the additional projects that the Company currently holds in its portfolio situated in Ontario and Alaska, and for the evaluation and potential acquisition of additional platinum group metal and precious metal projects in Canada and the United States. Finder's fees may be paid in connection with this private placement.

The private placement and any finder's fees payable are subject to regulatory approval. Any securities issued pursuant to the offering shall be subject to a four month and a day hold period commencing on the closing date.

About Pacific North West Capital Corp.

PFN is a mineral exploration company whose philosophy is to be a project generator, explorer and project operator in order to option/joint venture its projects through to production. PFN is focused on the discovery, exploration and development of PGM and nickel‐copper sulphide deposits in geologically prospective regions in North America, particularly Canada. The Company's key asset is its 100% owned River Valley PGM Project in the Sudbury region of northern Ontario. River Valley is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. PFN also has PGM and nickel‐copper projects in northwest Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alaska. The Company continues to evaluate PGM and nickel‐copper properties and projects in North America for potential acquisition opportunities.

Figure 1- Exploration targets for new higher grade resources internally within footwall of River Valley Intrusion. The peak of the IP chargeability anomalies (red outlined in white) plot to the east of the main mineralized zone ($) on the basal contact. The anomalies represent untested and under tested drill targets in the footwall to the River Valley Intrusion

(http://www.pfncapital.com/s/NewsReleases.asp?ReportID=573968)

About River Valley Project

In January 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. successfully negotiated the 100% acquisition of the River Valley PGM Project from Anglo Platinum Limited. The River Valley Project is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. The project has excellent infrastructure support and is located 100 km from the city of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada's largest nickel‐copper‐PGM mining and metal recovery centre.

In May 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. commenced a $5 million drill program on the project. The program was successfully completed in May 2012. Data from 2011-2012 resource drilling was combined with holes drilled previously up to 2005, and delivered to Wardrop Engineering for a mineral resource update.

The NI43‐101 compliant mineral resources for the River Valley Project effective May 1, 2012 are illustrated in the table below:

With these mineral resources, the River Valley Project is to be assessed for development potential as a large open pit PGM‐Cu‐Ni mining and milling operation as the project advances towards a Preliminary Economic Assessment Study. In support of this study, a metallurgical test program is in progress.

Qualified Persons Statement

This news release has been reviewed and approved for technical content by Dr. William Stone Ph.D., P.Geo. and Mr. Ali Hassanalizadeh M.Sc., P.Geo. both Qualified Persons under the provisions of National Instrument 43‐101.

Pacific North West Capital Corp. is an International Metals Group Company. (www.internationalmetalsgroup.com)

On behalf of the Board of Directors

[signed]

Harry Barr

Chairman and CEO

The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer: This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time with The Toronto Stock Exchange, British Columbia Securities Commission and the United States Securities & Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: Pacific North West Capital Corp.

For further information:

Tel: +1.604.685.1870 Fax: +1.604.685.8045
Email:info@pfncapital.com, or visit www.pfncapital.com
Suite 650 - 555 West 12th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V5Z 3X7

IIROC can make a decision to impose a temporary suspension of trading in a security of a publicly listed company, usually in anticipation of a material news announcement by the company. Trading halts are issued based on the principle that all investors should have the same timely access to important company information. IIROC is the national self-regulatory organization which oversees all investment dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

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If so, the small-cap stock you should be looking at is Pacific Northwest Capital (PFN:TSX). Yes, they are an AGORACOM client, so assume we are horribly conflicted. Now, consider the following:

1. 3.9 Million Ounces Of Palladium Equivalent (Measured and Indicated)
2. 1.2 Million Ounces Of Palladium Equivalent (Inferred)
3. One Of The Largest and Newest PGM Deposits In North America
4. Located In Mining Friendly Sudbury, Ontario
5. Infrastructure Ideal - Road, Power and Rail

Take a look at the following (click on images for larger chart)

KOLKATA: Palladium and platinum, the two precious metals, are witnessing a bull run in the last few weeks on the back of a rebound in auto demand in two key markets - Japan and the US.

Worldwide auto sales are set to hit a record high of 80 million units this year, says a latest global estimate. An improved Chinese auto demand will also have an impact on these precious metals in the coming weeks.

VANCOUVER, Nov. 29, 2012 - Pacific North West Capital Corp. (TSX: PFN; OTCQX: PAWEF; Frankfurt: P7J) (the "Company") announces it is proceeding with its non-brokered flow-through and non flow-through private placement of up to a combined 15,714,285 units for gross proceeds of up to $1,100,000 as announced October 12, 2012.

The proceeds from the private placement received from the sale of the units will be used for the further development and exploration of the River Valley PGM Project and exploration of two large adjacent properties, all located in the Sudbury region of Ontario. The proceeds from the sale of NFT Units will be used as working capital and for the additional projects that the Company currently holds in its portfolio situated in Ontario and Alaska, and for the evaluation and potential acquisition of additional platinum group metals and precious metal projects in Canada and the United States. Finder's fees may be paid in connection with this private placement. The foregoing is subject to regulatory approval.

About Pacific North West Capital Corp.

PFN is a mineral exploration company whose philosophy is to be a project generator, explorer and project operator in order to option/joint venture its projects through to production. PFN is focused on the discovery, exploration and development of PGM and nickel‐copper sulphide deposits in geologically prospective regions in North America, particularly Canada. The Company's key asset is its 100% owned River Valley PGM Project in the Sudbury region of northern Ontario. River Valley is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. PFN also has PGM and nickel‐copper projects in northwest Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alaska. The Company continues to evaluate PGM and nickel‐copper properties and projects in North America for potential acquisition opportunities.

Pacific North West Capital Corp. is an International Metals Group Company. (www.internationalmetalsgroup.com)

On behalf of the Board of Directors

(signed)

Harry Barr

Chairman and CEO

The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer: This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time with The Toronto Stock Exchange, British Columbia Securities Commission and the United States Securities & Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: Pacific North West Capital Corp.

For further information:

Tel: +1.604.685.1870 Fax: +1.604.685.8045
Email: info@pfncapital.com, or visit www.pfncapital.com
Suite 650 - 555 West 12th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V5Z 3X7

Source: http://www.fin24.com/Markets/Commodities/Palladium-platinum-rally-after-report-20121114

"Even before the recent troubles in South Africa, the high operational and capital costs have been making the extraction of Platinum Group Metals (PGM's) less and less economical in that country. With the unrest however, there is developing sentiment among risk averse investors to seek out more stable, jurisdictions. Pacific North West Capital (PFN) River Valley PGM project in mining friendly Sudbury, Ontario is an increasingly attractive investment. River Valley continues to make progress in exploration and resource definition and has become one of the largest underdeveloped PGM deposits in North America. We see a bright future for the project and the companies with platinum group metal projects in North America."

Harry Barr, Chairman & CEO

Corporate Update

In the past two years the Company has recognized the need to reach out to, and develop business relationships with, the Asian community. To this end, we have engaged a number of Asian-based financial contacts to assist in methodically cultivating relationships. Subsequent to our most recent non-brokered private placement announcement, our Company's President, Dr. Bill Stone and Mr. Brian Windatt, Marketing, gave presentations at the Academy and Finance conferences in Hong Kong and Singapore. Through these conferences, significant inroads were made in building an Asian-based business and investment network.

With regard to the River Valley project, the current metallurgical study, that is close to completion will be an important milestone. Knowing the metal recovery potential from our primary mineralized zones, will assist in undertaking a market research study for River Valley metal concentrate in 2013. We are also continuing efforts to seek out a strategic option joint venture partner in the upcoming year.

Key News Releases
Jun 15, 2012: Pacific North West Capital Announces SEDAR Filing of NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate for its 100% Owned River Valley PGM Project, Sudbury, Ontario. READ MORE...

Jun 19, 2012 Pacific North West Capital Announces a New Platinum Group Metal Zone on its River Valley Project, Sudbury, Ontario. READ MORE...

Jul 24, 2012 Pacific North West Capital Commences Metallurgical Studies of its River Valley PGM Deposit with SGS Canada Inc. READ MORE...

Industry Articles

The Case For Platinum: How And Why To Invest
Seeking Alpha
While gold and silver are the most popularly recommended precious metals, one of the world's top precious metals has not received as much attention as it deserves. That metal is platinum, which is rarer than gold and silver and has many applications ... READ MORE...

Platinum Prices Make Recovery
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
IBTimes reported platinum prices appear to have put together a more impressive recovery than either gold or silver during overnight trading action.

The funds’ wagers on a rally more than doubled since August as ETP holdings slumped to a seven-month low this month, data compiled by Bloomberg show. Prices for the metal used mostly in catalytic converters will average $800 an ounce in the third quarter, 35 percent more than now and the highest since 2001, based on the median of 13 analyst estimates.

Annual Shortage

Palladium is retreating for a second year and traded at $594.50 today. Gold gained 9.5 percent and silver 15 percent since the start of January. The Standard & Poor’s GSCI gauge of 24 commodities fell 1.2 percent and the MSCI All-Country World Index (MXWD) of equities gained 9.7 percent. Treasuries returned 1.9 percent, a Bank of America Corp. index shows.

Demand will rise 1.4 percent to 9.67 million ounces next year, the second-highest ever, as supply gains 3.2 percent to 9.59 million ounces, Barclays Plc estimates. Morgan Stanley is also predicting a second consecutive annual shortage in 2013.

That may grow as South African strikes spread. Police shot 34 protestors at Lonmin Plc’s Marikana mine on Aug. 16 amid the worst violence in the mining industry since the end of apartheid in 1991. The country produces 75 percent of the world’s platinum and 35 percent of its palladium. AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. and Gold Fields Ltd. began firing more than 20,000 workers this month as ultimatums passed for employees to return for duty.

The Federal Reserve said Sept. 13 it will buy $40 billion of mortgage debt a month and central banks in Europe and Japan have also pledged to buy more assets. China, the biggest palladium user, approved a $158 billion subways-to-roads construction plan. The nation’s growth will accelerate in this and the next three quarters, after slowing since the start of 2011, based on the median of as many as 31 economist estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

Central Banks

The central bank stimulus may bolster demand for cars, which account for 40 percent of platinum demand and 66 percent of palladium consumption. Worldwide sales of cars and light commercial vehicles will rise 5.3 percent to a record 85.3 million units next year, according to LMC Automotive Ltd., a research company in Oxford, England.

Hedge funds and other large speculators held a net-long position of 7,723 palladium futures and options by Oct. 23, U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission data show. While that’s down from 10,536 contracts on Oct. 9, the most since March, it compares with 2,436 contracts held in May, the least according to data compiled by Bloomberg going back to December 2009.

That reversal has yet to be reflected in ETPs, which fell 4.2 percent to 59.5 metric tons valued at $1.14 billion since mid-June. They rose for the first time since September yesterday. Holdings in platinum products jumped 12 percent, those in silver expanded 5.1 percent and gold rose 8.7 percent since mid-June, data compiled by Bloomberg show.

World War

The drop in palladium reflected mounting concern about growth. Demand contracted in 2008 and 2009 as the global economy endured its deepest slump since World War II. The International Monetary Fund cut its forecast for next year to 3.6 percent from 3.9 percent on Oct. 9. The 17-nation euro area will contract 0.4 percent in 2012, the Washington-based group estimates.

“If we see another recession, or if growth rates won’t be as high as forecasts are, you could see smaller demand,” said Thorsten Proettel, an analyst at Landesbank Baden Wuerttemberg in Stuttgart, Germany. “We’ll need more demand or supply interruptions for higher prices and I wouldn’t expect both for the next year.”

While analysts expect another year of shortages in 2013, it will be smaller than in 2012, with Barclays predicting a narrowing to 78,000 ounces from 234,000 ounces. There may be 6 million to 9 million ounces stockpiled globally, according to Standard Bank Plc, with the higher figure equal to almost 16 months of mine production.

Norilsk Nickel

About 150,000 to 200,000 ounces of palladium production may be lost this year because of unrest in South Africa, as well as 300,000 to 400,000 ounces of platinum, said Anton Berlin, deputy chief executive officer of the sales unit of OAO GMK Norilsk Nickel. The Moscow-based company is the world’s biggest palladium producer.

Sales from Russian state stockpiles, which reached 1 million ounces as recently as 2010, will decline to 150,000 ounces next year, Barclays estimates. The reserves, a state secret, are probably almost depleted, according to London-based Johnson Matthey Plc, the maker of one in three autocatalysts.

Palladium is trading 47 percent below its 2001 record of $1,125 and 62 percent below the price of platinum. That’s spurring carmakers to use more in autocatalysts, canisters that have honeycomb-like surfaces converting emissions into less harmful substances. Palladium accounted for about 30 percent of the metal in catalytic converters for diesel vehicles last year, from 20 percent in 2009, Johnson Matthey estimates.

Rhodium Market

Rhodium, another precious metal used in autocatalysts, fell 20 percent this year to $1,125 an ounce, Johnson Matthey data show. The rhodium market is about 10 percent of the size of palladium, based on demand. Deutsche Bank AG introduced ETPs backed by rhodium in May 2011 and they now hold 46,900 ounces valued at about $50 million, according to data from the Frankfurt-based bank.

Carmakers will use a record 6.54 million ounces of palladium next year, Barclays estimates. Demand from other industrial applications including dental, electrical and glass manufacturing will rise 3.7 percent to 2.64 million ounces, the bank predicts.

Norilsk Nickel

Shares of Norilsk Nickel fell 3.3 percent this year and will gain 24 percent to 5,951 rubles ($189) in the next 12 months, according to the average of 10 analyst forecasts compiled by Bloomberg. The company will report a 7.9 percent gain in profit to $3.24 billion in 2013, the mean of five estimates shows.

“If you are a little bit more long-term orientated and not just focused on the next two or three months, then it is a good buying opportunity,” said Daniel Briesemann, a commodities analyst at Commerzbank AG in Frankfurt. “Lower supply from Russia and recovering demand from the auto industry in at least Asia and America should be the main driving factors behind rising prices.”

To contact the reporters on this story: Nicholas Larkin in London at nlarkin1@bloomberg.net; Debarati Roy in New York at droy5@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Claudia Carpenter at ccarpenter2@bloomberg.net.

Source: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-10-30/hedge-funds-returning-to-palladium-as-etps-retreat-commodities.html

Platinum prices are forecasted to be underpinned by strong fundamentals in 2013 argue Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research.

Prior to the recent correction lower, platinum had risen more than $300/oz on the back of Quantitative Easing and unrest in South Africa.

We believe many of the issues in South Africa's PGM (platinum-group metals) industry are structural, suggesting the challenging operating environment will persist. This is one reason we are bullish for 2013 and beyond; in our view, the structural medium-term bull story is not under threat from the introduction of electrified vehicles," says a note from the Global Commodity Research team.

However, given that demand growth is subdued for now and considering that sustained supply-led rallies are rare, analysts see scope for further downside from here through 4Q.

With regards to the unrest in South Africa, if some of these disruptions continue, "we see the platinum market in a 250koz deficit this year. Many of the issues in South Africa's PGM (platinum-group metals) industry are structural, i.e. they have more to do with perceived social inequality than individual corporate problems. While the immediacy of the strikes may subside, this suggests South Africa's operating environment will remain challenging," says the note.

Bank of America anticipate a rebound of global platinum off-take next year.

"With miners in our view unable to increase production meaningfully, this will keep the market in deficit and should then also lead to a more sustained rally," says the bank.

However, price declines in the near term are forecast:

"Yet, even though we remain structural bulls and see scope for price rises in 2013, we believe there is a risk quotations could fall further from here, given the current demand weakness. After the recent correction, our preferred structure would have been a put spread, but the smile makes this structure expensive. Hence, we suggest buying a short-dated put, maturing within the next 4-6 weeks."

Source: http://www.economy-news.co.uk/stocks/1851-platinum-price-forecasts

Company:

Pacific North West Capital Corp.

TSX Symbol:

PFN (all issues)

Resumption Time (ET):

14:00

IIROC can make a decision to impose a temporary suspension of trading in a security of a publicly listed company, usually in anticipation of a material news announcement by the company. Trading halts are issued based on the principle that all investors should have the same timely access to important company information. IIROC is the national self-regulatory organization which oversees all investment dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

- 30 -

For further information: IIROC Inquiries 1-877-442-4322 (Option 3) - Please note that IIROC is not able to provide any additional information regarding a specific trading halt. Information is limited to general enquiries only.

Source: Newsfile Corp. (October 12, 2012 - 1:56 PM EDT)

Friday, October 12, 2012

TSX: PFN OTCQX: PAWEF Frankfurt: P7J

VANCOUVER, Oct. 12, 2012 /CNW/ - Pacific North West Capital Corp. (TSX: PFN; OTCQX: PAWEF; Frankfurt: P7J) (the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered flow-through and non flow- through private placement of up to a combined 15,714,285 units for gross proceeds of up to $1,100,000.

Each non flow-through unit ("NFT Unit") at a price of $0.07 per unit will consist of one common share and one-half of one, non-transferable, share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.13 for a period of 18 months from the closing date, subject to an accelerated expiry, such expiry to be accelerated to 30 days in the event the Company's shares have closed at or above a price of $0.23 per share for 10 consecutive trading days on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX").

Each flow-through unit ("FT Unit") at a price of $0.08 per unit will consist of one common flow-through share and one-half of one non flow-through, non-transferable, share purchase warrant. Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one additional non flow-through common share of the Company at $0.14 for a period of 18 months from the closing date, subject to an accelerated expiry, such expiry to be accelerated to 30 days in the event the Company's shares have closed at or above a price of $0.24 per share for 10 consecutive trading days on the TSX.

The proceeds from the private placement received from the sale of the units will be used for the further development and exploration of the River Valley PGM Project and exploration of two large adjacent properties, all located in the Sudbury region of Ontario. The proceeds from the sale of NFT Units will be used as working capital and for the additional projects that the Company currently holds in its portfolio situated in Ontario and Alaska, and for the evaluation and potential acquisition of additional platinum group metal and precious metal projects in Canada and the United States. Finder's fees may be paid in connection with this private placement. The foregoing is subject to regulatory approval.

About Pacific North West Capital Corp

PFN is a mineral exploration company whose philosophy is to be a project generator, explorer and project operator in order to option/joint venture its projects through to production. PFN is focused on the discovery, exploration and development of PGM and nickel‐copper sulphide deposits in geologically prospective regions in North America, particularly Canada. The Company's key asset is its 100% owned River Valley PGM Project in the Sudbury region of northern Ontario. River Valley is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. PFN also has PGM and nickel‐copper projects in northwest Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alaska. The Company continues to evaluate PGM and nickel‐copper properties and projects in North America for potential acquisition opportunities.

About River Valley Project

In January 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. successfully negotiated the 100% acquisition of the River Valley PGM Project from Anglo Platinum Limited. The River Valley Project is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. The project has excellent infrastructure support and is located 100 km from the city of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada's largest nickel‐copper‐PGM mining and metal recovery centre.

In May 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. commenced a $5 million drill program on the project. The program was successfully completed in May 2012. Data from 2011-2012 resource drilling was combined with holes drilled previously up to 2005, and delivered to Wardrop Engineering for a mineral resource update.



The NI43‐101 compliant mineral resources for the River Valley Project effective May 1, 2012 are illustrated here. To view, please click here

With these mineral resources, the River Valley Project is to be assessed for development potential as a large open pit PGM‐Cu‐Ni mining and milling operation as the project advances towards a Preliminary Economic Assessment Study. In support of this study, a metallurgical test program is in progress.

Qualified Persons Statement

This news release has been reviewed and approved for technical content by Dr. William Stone Ph.D., P.Geo. and Mr. Ali Hassanalizadeh M.Sc., P.Geo. both Qualified Persons under the provisions of National Instrument 43‐101.

Pacific North West Capital Corp. is an International Metals Group Company. (www.internationalmetalsgroup.com)

On behalf of the Board of Directors

(signed)

Harry Barr

Chairman and CEO

The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer: This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time with The Toronto Stock Exchange, British Columbia Securities Commission and the United States Securities & Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: Pacific North West Capital Corp.

For further information:

Tel: +1.604.685.1870 Fax: +1.604.685.8045 Email: info@pfncapital.com, or visit www.pfncapital.com Suite 650 - 555 West 12th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V5Z 3X7

Company: Pacific North West Capital Corp.

TSX Symbol: PFN (all issues)

Reason: Pending News

Halt Time (ET): 1:29 PM ET

The Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) can make a decision to impose a temporary suspension of trading in a security of a publicly listed company, usually in anticipation of a material news announcement by the company. Trading halts are issued based on the principle that all investors should have the same timely access to important company information. IIROC is the national self-regulatory organization which oversees all investment dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

SOURCE: Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC)

For further information:

IIROC Inquiries 1-877-442-4322 (Option 3) - Please note that IIROC is not able to provide any additional information regarding a specific trading halt. Information is limited to general enquiries only. For more information on IIROC's halts and resumptions policy click here.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Author: Lawrence Williams
Posted: Friday , 14 Sep 2012

LONDON (Mineweb) -

The platinum double-whammy is already beginning to take effect as it closes the big price gap on gold, and given the ongoing labour problems in South Africa one shouldn't be too surprised if the difference narrows even further. Indeed, perhaps platinum could even return to its normal position of commanding a premium over gold should the unrest on the platinum mines continue. And there's certainly no end in sight yet.

The big dip in the platinum price, which took it down below gold in the second half of last year, where it has stayed since, has largely been due to a perceived substantial production surplus as demand has been affected by the global economic downturn given that nowadays platinum is primarily an industrial metal, although with jewellery overtones. With the South African mines hugely dominant in terms of global supply, this side of the equation is being drastically reduced with serious production disruptions at all three of the world's top producers - Anglo Platinum (Amplats), Impala Platinum (Implats) and Lonmin. Last year's platinum surplus was estimated at around 400,000 ounces and the loss in South African production through the ongoing labour problems, which have turned extremely nasty, has to be already approaching this figure - indeed it may even have exceeded it with Lonmin's big Marikana mine still at a standstill and the No. 1 producer, Amplats, having had to suspend operations at its massive Rustenburg operations for worker safety reasons given intimidation by other striking workers in the area, as well as by political agitators. Implats too has not been immune from disruptions - and indeed was the original seat of the labour difficulties in the area with major loss in production as a result early this year, and new pay rumblings within its workforce.

Double whammy? However illogical it may be platinum group metals are affected by the gold price and broadly if the latter rises, pgm prices do too. The U.S. Fed's latest stimulus announcement has not only thus seen a substantial jump in the gold price, but an even larger one in platinum in percentage terms with the latter closing the gap with gold to under $70 an ounce at the time of writing. Two months ago the difference in price between the two was more than $200 an ounce.

But the other key factor with regard to the strength, or otherwise, of the platinum price is demand - and estimates of global demand this year have been hugely variable. At the beginning of the year some analysts had predicted that supply would exceed demand by as much as 1 million ounces this year because of the declining global economies affecting industrial demand, while others had come up with much lower figures. Demand is far harder to predict with reasonable accuracy than supply. If disruption at the platinum mines in South Africa continues then supply could well be cut this year by half a million ounces or more and whether this is sufficient to counter the fall in industrial demand remains to be seen, but on some predictions this could indeed put the metal back into deficit - and the Fed stimulus, which should boost U.S. industrial demand, coupled with stimulus programmes elsewhere may well help the global industrial sector perform better than earlier anticipated.

Whether it does finally pan out that platinum remains in surplus this year or not, worries about supply security are having industrial users, for whom platinum may be an important raw material, rush to secure supplies against a possible shortfall and this, in particular, is what is helping drive prices upwards at the moment. Investors too will be aware of this trend and noticeably platinum ETFs are seeing inflows again and approaching their peak levels , which takes more metal off the market.

So, taking all these factors into consideration, unless there is seen to be a rapid, and lasting, settlement at the South African platinum mines, ongoing worries about supply could well see platinum prices continue to rise faster than gold. At the current rate this could even see platinum back at its normal position of a premium over the gold price within the next month or two.

Source: http://www.mineweb.com/mineweb/view/mineweb/en/page35?oid=158587&sn=Detail&pid=102055

VANCOUVER, Sept. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - Pacific North West Capital Corp. (TSX: "PFN"; OTCQX: PAWEF; Frankfurt: P7J) is pleased to announce the results of the 2012 Annual General Meeting (the "AGM") held September 6, 2012 at the Company's executive offices in Vancouver, B.C.

At the AGM, James Stafford Chartered Accountants Inc. was re-appointed as the Company's auditors. The approval of investments in other companies at the discretion of Management was further approved by the shareholders. The number of directors was set at five and the shareholders voted in favour of electing the Company's nominees as directors: Harry Barr, Linda Holmes, John Londry, Jordan Point and Dennis Hop.

In light of being nominated and subsequently appointed as a director of the Company at the AGM, the Board of Directors further announce Dennis Hop's decision to resign as a director of the Company. The Board wishes to thank Mr. Hop for his services as he has been a valuable member and played an important role to the Company. The Board and Company management wish him success in his future endeavors.

Further to Mr. Hop's resignation, the Company's Directors are pleased to announce Mr. Michael Neumann P. Eng. has been appointed to its Board of Directors at the Directors Meeting held immediately following the Company's 2012 AGM.

Mr. Neumann brings significant experience in the mining arena and has been Proprietor of Neumann Engineering and Mining Services, Inc. since 1993 providing international engineering services focusing primarily on underground hard rock engineering facets such as mine design, productivity improvements, rock mechanics, second opinions, peer reviews and other types of studies.

Mr. Neumann is a graduate of Haileybury School of Mines and Michigan Technological University (Mining Engineering Degree) a member of the Canadian Institute of Mining, the International Society of Rock Mechanics and the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario. Concurrent with his current position, from 2003 to 2006, Mr. Neumann was Director and Chief Operating Officer of Silver Eagle Mines Inc., (now Excellon Resources Inc.) a TSX listed Canadian-based silver exploration and development company focused on acquiring, exploring and developing high grade silver deposits among the silver mines in Mexico. Prior to this Mr. Neumann was Co- Founder and Director of the Engineering Seismology Group Inc. based in Kingston, Ontario. His early industry experience includes positions of Chief Engineer at Campbell Red Lake Mines and Underground Superintendent at Barrick's Holt McDermott Mine.

Mr. Harry Barr, Chairman and CEO states, "We are very pleased to welcome Michael Neumann to our Company's Board. His vast experience in mining will further enhance the strength of our Board."

About Pacific North West Capital Corp

PFN is a mineral exploration company whose philosophy is to be a project generator, explorer and project operator in order to option/joint venture its projects through to production. PFN is focused on the discovery, exploration and development of PGM and nickel‐copper sulphide deposits in geologically prospective regions in North America, particularly Canada. The Company's key asset is its 100% owned River Valley PGM Project in the Sudbury region of northern Ontario. River Valley is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. PFN also has PGM and nickel‐copper projects and properties in northwest Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alaska, and an option to joint venture a base metal project in northwestern BC's Golden Triangle region. The Company continues to evaluate PGM and nickel‐copper properties and projects in North America for potential acquisition opportunities.

About River Valley Project

In January 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. successfully negotiated the 100% acquisition of the River Valley PGM Project from Anglo Platinum Limited. The River Valley Project is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM projects in North America. The project has excellent infrastructure support and is located 100 km from the city of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada's largest nickel‐copper‐PGM mining and metal recovery centre.

In May 2011, Pacific North West Capital Corp. commenced a $5 million drill program on the project. The program was successfully completed in May 2012. Data from 2011-2012 resource drilling was combined with holes drilled previously up to 2005, and delivered to Wardrop Engineering for a mineral resource update.

The NI43‐101 compliant mineral resources for the River Valley Project effective May 1, 2012 are illustrated in Table below

With these mineral resources, the River Valley Project is to be assessed for development potential as a large open pit PGM‐Cu‐Ni mining and milling operation as the project advances towards a Preliminary Economic Assessment Study. In support of this study, a metallurgical test program is in progress.

Qualified Persons Statement

This news release has been reviewed and approved for technical content by Ali Hassanalizadeh M.Sc. P.Geo. a qualified Person under the provisions of National Instrument 43‐101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

(signed)

Harry Barr

Chairman and CEO

Disclaimer: Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements: Certain information presented, including discussions of future plans and operations, contains forward-looking statements involving substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to risk and uncertainty, many of which are beyond control of company management. These may include, but are not limited to the influence of general economic conditions, industry conditions, fluctuations of commodity prices and foreign exchange rate conditions, prices, rates, environmental risk, industry competition, availability of qualified staff and management, stock market volatility, timely and cost effective access to sufficient working capital or financing from internal and external sources. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward looking statements.

Labour disputes coupled with weak prices, high costs and negative sentiment around the metal, which is used in autocatalysts and jewellery, have resulted in heavy cutbacks in supply from South Africa this year.

Platinum miners have reported disrupted supply or shaft closures or delayed projects because of industrial action or the poor economics of operating mines. Combined, more than 250,000oz of platinum production have been lost so far this year.

Platinum hit a 2012 high in February of $1,729/oz before falling back to a low of $1,384 in June. With more than two weeks of labour strife at Lonmin in which 44 people have been killed the platinum price has pushed to levels last seen in May, touching $1,540.

"Ultimately, for someone to take out 100,000oz or 200,000oz of production, they’ve got to cut back on labour. Imagine making that decision now with all of this going on around the sector," Implats marketing executive Derek Engelbrecht said last week. The negative sentiment around the demand side may be overdone, with strong growth in vehicle production, he said.

About 45% of platinum used to make autocatalysts is consumed in Europe, where the poor economic environment has reduced car sales.

"Global auto sales are tracking at an all-time high, notwithstanding what we’re seeing in Europe.

"It is interesting to note that a 7% reduction in EU (European Union) sales represents about 100,000 platinum ounces and analysts are using this number to forecast Armageddon in this industry. It is quite simply insane," Mr Engelbrecht said. Implats, whose CEO is Terence Goodlace, expects the platinum market to be in balance this year and slip into a deficit next year.

"We see a deficit because supply is not going to catch up next year. Our forecast is for steady demand for a year and then it will slowly start picking up from the middle of the year, so we’re not expecting it to come out of the racing blocks right away," Mr Engelbrecht said.

Demand was expected to be steady for the rest of this year, said Northam Platinum’s marketing manager, Jerry White.

"However, what appears now to be almost certain is that the metal surpluses currently prevailing in platinum and palladium will be further eroded as the year progresses as output from primary producers is throttled back or simply lost to the market by way of unscheduled stoppages. This combined with our outlook for steady metal demand should lend support to prices as the year progresses," Mr White said.

One of the fears in the platinum sector is that the troubles afflicting producers results in prices spiralling higher. "What I hope does not happen is that there’s another massive spike in prices. That’s not good for the industry," Mr Engelbrecht said.

"People are asking if it can go back to $2,000. Of course it can. If there’s a major blow up in the industrial relations front in the next couple of days, then yes, $2,000 is possible, but I just hope like hell it doesn’t happen," he said.

Source: http://www.bdlive.co.za/business/mining/2012/08/28/platinum-market-likely-to-slide-into-deficit-next-year

TSX: PFN OTCQX: PAWEF Frankfurt: P7J

VANCOUVER , July 24, 2012 /CNW/ - Pacific North West Capital Corp. (TSX: "PFN" OTCQX: PAWEF; Frankfurt: P7J) is pleased to announce its acceptance of a proposal from SGS Canada Inc. for metallurgical testing on the River Valley platinum group metal (PGM) deposit, located 100 km to the northeast of Sudbury (Figure 1). The deposit is currently owned 100% by PFN. On May 1, 2012 PFN announced a new NI43-101 compliant mineral resource estimation. The estimated Measured + Indicated mineral resources at a cut-off grade of 0.80 g/t PdEq total 91,339,500 tonnes grading 0.84 g/t Pd+Pt+Au, 0.06% copper and 0.02% nickel (1.38 g/t PdEq). The Inferred resources total 35,911,000 tonnes grading 0.53 g/t Pd+Pt+Au, 0.06% copper and 0.03% nickel (1.07 g/t PdEq). The distribution of the River Valley mineral resources is represented in Figure 2.

Figure 1. Location of the PFN's 100% owned River Valley PGM Project relative to the Sudbury and its metallurgical facilities, northern Ontario, Canada Valley Property, Sudbury region.
(http://www.pfncapital.com/s/NewsReleases.asp?ReportID=538469)

Figure 2. Distribution of the NI43-101 compliant mineral resources on the River Valley PGM Project.
(http://www.pfncapital.com/s/NewsReleases.asp?ReportID=538469)

With these mineral resources, the River Valley Project is to be assessed as a large open pit PGM-Cu-Ni mining and milling operation as the project advances towards a Preliminary Economic Assessment (Scoping) Study. In support of this study, a metallurgical test program is to be completed and build on limited preliminary test work completed intermittently between 1999 and 2006. SGS Canada Inc. has extensive experience with these types of low sulphide mineralization, particularly in the development of economically viable flow sheets. The metallurgical test program includes sample preparation and characterization, grindability testing, ore beneficiation, flotation testing and environmental testing. Initial ore sorting and dense media separation tests may also be performed.

Two diamond drill holes will provide material for the metallurgical test program. One of the holes will be drilled at the Dana North Zone and the other at the Dana South Zone. Each hole is anticipated to provide 500 kg of core material, allowing for: 1) extensive test work on a single composite sample from each zone plus an overall composite sample of the two zones; and 2) comprehensive assaying and QEMSCAN studies to follow the PGM during the test work. The drilling is planned to be completed and the materials delivered to SGS in August. The test program should be completed by the end of the year. Mr. Al Hayden , P.Eng.. and Associate of NordPro Mine & Project Management Services (Thunder Bay) has been hired by PFN as its metallurgical consultant to supervise the study and review results.

About River Valley Project

In January 2011 , Pacific North West Capital Corp. successfully negotiated the 100% acquisition of the River Valley PGM Project from Anglo Platinum Limited. The River Valley Project is one of the largest undeveloped primary PGM Projects in North America . The project has excellent infrastructure support and is located 100 km from the city of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada's largest nickel‐copper‐PGM mining and metal recovery centre.

The NI43-101 compliant mineral resources for the River Valley Project effective May 1, 2012 are as follows:

Notes to Mineral Resources in above table

1. The mineral resource estimates in this press release use the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines prepared by CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by CIM Council on November 27, 2010. The mineral resource estimates provided in this report are classified as "measured", "indicated", or "inferred" as defined by CIM. According to the CIM definitions, a Mineral Resource must be potentially economic in that it must be "in such form and quantity and of such grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction".
   
   
2. For the River Valley project, a palladium equivalent (PdEq) cut-off grade was assigned based on economic assumptions from comparisons to other projects, and was used in the resource estimations. Resources reported in this press release use a cut-off of 0.80 g/t PdEq. Grades have assumed 100% recoveries. The parameters used to generate the PdEq value are provided below:
   PdEq=( (Au grade*$Au*Factor1)+(Pt grade*$Pt*Factor1)+(Pd grade*$Pd*Factor1)+(Ni grade*$Ni*Factor2)+(Cu grade*$Cu*Factor2) +(Co grade*$Co*Factor3))/ ($Pd*Factor1)
   $Au = US$1271 per oz.
   $Pt = US$1885 per oz.
   $Pd = US$896 per oz.
   $Ni = US$ 9.74 per lb.
   $Cu = US$3.00 per lb.
   $Co = US$15.90 per lb.
   Factor1 = 0.0321508 (converts ounce per tonne to grams per tonne)
   Factor2 = 22.04622 (converts pounds to grade percent)
   Factor3 = 0.002205 (converts pounds to ppm)
   
   
3. The mineral resources were estimated using a block model with parent blocks of 10m x 10m x 5m and using ordinary kriging (OK) methods for grade estimation. A total of eight individual mineralized domains were identified. The determination technique of the mineral resource is based on the combination of geological modelling, geostatistics and conventional block modelling using the OK method of grade interpolation. The block model resource estimate prepared by the Tetra Tech, was based on more than 96,980 metres of diamond drilling in 462 diamond drill holes. The assay data was reviewed and a composite interval of 2.0 metres was used. Statistical and Variogram analyses were performed to determine the "nugget effect".
   
   
4. Rhodium grades were not estimated by the OK methodology. Rhodium values were determined using a regression formula based on the platinum and palladium grades. Rhodium values are not incorporated into the PdEq value. The PdEq value also does not include silver.
   
   
5. The QAQC protocols and corresponding sample preparation and shipment procedures for the River Valley Project have been reviewed and approved by Tetra Tech.

Qualified Person Statement

This news release has been reviewed and approved for technical content by Dr. William Stone , President & COO of PFN, a Qualified Person under the provisions of National Instrument 43-101.

About Pacific North West Capital Corp

PFN is a mineral exploration company whose philosophy is to be a project generator, explorer and project operator in order to option-joint venture its projects through to production. PFN is focused on the discovery, exploration and development of PGM and nickel‐copper sulphide deposits in geologically prospective regions in North America , particularly Canada . The Company's key asset is its 100% owned River Valley PGM Project in the Sudbury region of northern Ontario. PFN also has PGM and nickel‐copper projects and properties in northwest Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alaska. The Company continues to evaluate PGM and nickel‐copper properties and projects in North America for potential acquisition opportunities.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

(signed)

Harry Barr
Chairman and CEO

Disclaimer: Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements: Certain information presented, including discussions of future plans and operations, contains forward-looking statements involving substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to risk and uncertainty, many of which are beyond control of company management. These may include, but are not limited to the influence of general economic conditions, industry conditions, fluctuations of commodity prices and foreign exchange rate conditions, prices, rates, environmental risk, industry competition, availability of qualified staff and management, stock market volatility, timely and cost effective access to sufficient working capital or financing from internal and external sources. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward looking statements.

Both metals have felt the sting of Europe's debt crisis, with erosion of discretionary consumer spending on big-ticket items like cars, the largest source of industrial demand for platinum and palladium.

A broadly struggling platinum price over the past 12 months has forced a number of closures in top supplier South Africa, where a number of miners are now producing at a loss, and where a prolonged strike at a major mine earlier this year removed around 120,000 ounces from the market.

A poll of 19 analysts yielded a median forecast of $1,550 an ounce for the third quarter of this year and a forecast of $1,625 for the final quarter.

For 2012 as a whole, the platinum price is expected to average $1,572.06 and $1,747.50 in 2013, compared with the current year-to-date median of $1,553.24 and last year's average $1,765.00. Three months ago, analysts expected an average platinum price of $1,678.00 this year and $1,800.00 next year.

“High-cost producers are currently losing money on an operating-cost basis and the pressure on the industry can already be seen by some mine closures in South Africa,” Standard Chartered analyst Dan Smith, who expects platinum to average $1,665.00 in 2012, said.

“A small amount has been cut, but further cutbacks are likely in the months ahead. Operating costs have risen dramatically in recent years, as wage rates have soared and industry margins have been squeezed.”

South Africa accounts for 80 percent of platinum supply and its producers have seen output fall sharply over the last year because of industrial action and a flurry of government-imposed safety stoppages.

Even with the U.S. dollar at two-year highs against a basket of currencies, which acts as a major headwind on dollar-priced assets, platinum has outperformed the other three major precious metals so far this year, with a modest rise of 0.8 percent, compared with a decline of nearly 25 percent in the price of palladium.

But the effect of the global slowdown on the demand side of the platinum fundamental equation is uncertain enough to make analysts cautious about the outlook for 2012, although all but one of those surveyed see greater cause for optimism in 2013.

Platinum is most widely used in jewellery, which accounts for roughly a third of total demand, while its main industrial use is in catalytic converters, mainly in diesel-powered vehicles.

EUROPEAN RISK

Last year, European demand for platinum in autocatalysts fell by 1.6 percent to 1.47 million ounces, a two-year low, according to figures from refiner Johnson Matthey.

New car registrations in the 27-member European Union, the world's largest diesel vehicle market, fell in May by 8.7 percent to 1.107 million vehicles. Monthly sales have fallen on a year-on-year basis every month since October, according to data from the European auto industry association ACEA.

“Although mine supply will likely contract in 2012 given that the South African mining industry is facing severe difficulties, more production curtailment needs to be achieved if the underlying physical surplus is to be reduced. This is all the more important given dire European auto and truck sales,” said Anne-Laure Tremblay, BNP Paribas precious metals analyst.

“Looking ahead, it is unlikely that platinum demand will recover substantially in 2012. We expect a physical market surplus to extend into 2013 and forecast platinum's return to a premium over gold only in late 2013.”

Palladium already boasts a market deficit thanks to strong demand for the metal in the world's big gasoline-powered car markets like China and the United States and to a drying up of strategic government sales by top producer Russia.

The market relies less heavily than platinum on the flagging European market and is less exposed to the impact of the debt crisis that has forced Greece, Portugal and Ireland to seek sovereign bailouts and Spain to seek a lifeline for its banks.

Analysts expect palladium to hold largely steady in 2012, but to average 20 percent more in price in 2013 than the average price in the year to date, as stability returns to the global economy and the likes of China return to robust growth.

The poll yielded a median forecast of $650 in the third quarter of the year and a forecast of $700 in the fourth quarter.

For the whole of 2012, palladium is expected to average $665, down from $720 forecast three months ago and compared with the year-to-date average of $649.99 and last year's average price of $748.30.

Analysts now predict an average price of $780 in 2013, up from $795.25.

“Palladium remains our most favoured among the commodities we cover. The market has been in a perennial supply deficit over the past few years, which has been 'filled' by releases from Russian strategic stockpiles,” Nikos Kavalis, an analyst at RBS Global Banking & Markets, said.

“As we forecast these will collapse in 2012-13 and altogether stop in 2014, we expect the market will tighten considerably.” - Reuters

Source: http://www.iol.co.za/business/markets/commodities/platinum-palladium-set-for-gains-1.1342486#.UAVmTJEoqJQ

Author: Shivom Seth
Posted: Monday , 16 Jul 2012

MUMBAI (MINEWEB) -

It may not really be a battle of yellow versus white, yet. But, with gold prices hitting the roof in rupee terms, Indians are turning to other alternatives such as platinum to satiate their hunger for precious metals jewellery.

Conventionally, platinum prices have always been ahead of gold but the upsurge in gold prices in recent years has brought the two precious metals closer and closer together.

According to the Platinum Guild International, there are close to 422 outlets in India offering platinum jewellery. Moreover, an increase in retail outlets offering platinum and rising consumer purchases have driven platinum jewellery demand up by a third to 2.5 tonnes in 2011.

Platinum, one of the rarest of rare metals, entered the Indian jewellery market over a decade ago and continues to play first cousin to gold in a market, which for centuries, has been afflicted by the `yellow' fever.

In one sense, the battle between gold and platinum also represents the conflict between the traditional and the modern. ``Platinum jewellery does not evoke memories of family gatherings, marriage, festivities,'' remarks Swapna Kale, a housewife from central Mumbai, who has been buying gold on almost all occasions and especially at most Indian festivals.

Swapna may be right, but the white metal represents the more modern India, one that is veering away from buying gold only on auspicious occasions. For example, diamonds set in platinum far outshine those in gold, and that is what retailers like Tanishq are banking on.

Tanishq is India's largest jewellery retailer and currently operates 137 stores in 80 cities. It has a plan to open 45 stores this year. Tanishq was selling platinum in 30 stores up till now but plans to expand sales to 100 stores this year.

Other jewellers, too, have created a means to offer elegant platinum jewellery to smaller towns and rural markets. Leading independent family jewellers are showcasing platinum jewellery side by side with gold jewellery and especially in chain stores with brands like Orra.

In India, platinum is imported in the form of bars and jewellery.

The battle certainly remains unequal. After all, around 960 tonnes of gold were consumed in India in 2011, as against a mere four tonnes of platinum. The platinum market in India is not only battling gold; it is also fighting a mental block because still, people do not believe that platinum will fetch the kind of return on investment as gold.

Yet, platinum jewellery purchase in India grew by a third to 2.5 tonnes in 2011, according to a report by precious metals refiner, Johnson Matthey.

In the face of the `traditional' pressure from gold, the growth graph of platinum-based jewellery has been inching its way up. So much so, that almost all leading retailers now have separate counters for the white metal and even exclusive platinum stores, clearly an indication of its growth story.

The number of stores retailing platinum jewellery have gone up by 70% to 100% over the last three years. The Platinum Guild International, a body set up in 1975 to promote the sale of platinum, has already gone on record to state that in the last couple of years, the white metal has gained momentum due to aggressive marketing.

So what has changed? A discernible change in buying habits and the price factor. More and more men are becoming buyers of platinum jewellery, a nascent trend that has been observed by retailer.

Ten years ago, when platinum was introduced in India as jewellery, it was more than twice as expensive as gold.

But with gold prices going north and platinum prices falling, today, the price difference between the two is not much. A gram of gold, including wastage and making charges, comes to about $51 per gram as compared to $58 per gram for platinum.

With the Platinum Guild planning to intensify retail expansion in 2012 across Tier II cities, the annual consumption is set to go up by about 25%. As of now, platinum jewellery makes up about 3% of the total $61.3 billion precious metal jewellery sales in India.

Data released by the World Gold Council notes that demand for the yellow metal in India fell 19% in the January to March quarter, 2012. Platinum retailers are banking on this steady fall in the demand for retail gold to up their sales in the coming years.

iPad Version: Picture - A saleswoman displays platinum rings for the camera at a jewellery showroom in New Delhi: REUTERS/Parivartan Sharma

Source: http://www.mineweb.com/mineweb/view/mineweb/en/page35?oid=155162&sn=Detail&pid=102055