Resources joint ventures on the rise as cash remains scarce

An increasing number of resources companies are striking joint-venture agreements to fund their projects as the capital squeeze on the battered industry continues, according to the Australian Financial Review.

Almost five times as many joint venture agreements were struck in the final three months of 2015 as in the first quarter of the year, according to analysis conducted by resources industry research firm Austex Mining.

Juniors struggle for traction amid bauxite boom

Australian bauxite aspirants are struggling for traction despite Chinese imports of the aluminium ingredient rising 45% in 2015, according to the Australian Financial Review.

While industry giants like Alcoa and Rio Tinto are increasing their exposure to bauxite, the fleet of Australian juniors that sought to ride the same wave are struggling to hang on.

Palmer defends donations despite mass sackings at his Queensland refinery

Clive Palmer has defended channelling millions of dollars in donations from his Queensland Nickel company, saying workers at the venture were “the heroes” despite it announcing 237 job losses on Friday, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

Breaking his silence, Palmer has blamed the falling cost of nickel as well as the Queensland government for the job losses, after they failed to guarantee a $35 million loan for his Queensland nickel refinery.