Precious metals are rare, naturally occurring elements with a
high economic value. Gold and silver derive their value from
this historical use as coinage, but others like palladium have
the dual benefit of being rare and useful in commercial
applications. Even better, many of these applications are
projected to rapidly grow, resulting in higher demand [for more
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Palladium is an extremely rare element that was first discovered
in the early 19th century. Despite a relatively short history,
palladium and other platinum group metals (which include
platinum, rhodium, iridium, osmium, and ruthenium) are used
widely today. By some estimates, one in four products either
contains a platinum group metal or uses one in the manufacturing
process. Palladium, like platinum, is used widely in the
manufacture of catalytic converters, creating a link between the
price of the metal and the health of the global auto industry.
As such, palladium as an investment vehic