World mining industry in 1998 and 1999: Mergers and acquisitions more important than exploration

Abstract

This comment discusses the status of the world mining industry in 1998 and 1999, primarily by analysing data from studies conducted by the Raw Materials Group in Stockholm. It focuses in particular on the strong wave of mergers and acquisitions in the industry that has taken place during the last few years. The main purpose is to review the most important mergers and acquisitions during the period 1997 to 1999. Their characteristics and the main reasons for the continued “urge to merge”; are discussed.