AI computations rely on chips like GPUs and ASICs, which use rare-earth elements (neodymium, yttrium, gallium, germanium, etc.) and other mined materials to manufacture. Producing these materials is absolutely essential to constructing data-centers and hardware for AI. Access to stable and ethical mining of these minerals affects global chip availability and costs ReutersReutersReutersReutersWikipedia.
- Since China dominates the rare‑earth supply chain, geopolitical negotiations often revolve around securing these materials—for instance, trade talks between the U.S. and China now include rare-earth provisions tied to AI chip exports Reuters.
- Governments (e.g. in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia) are investing heavily in domestic rare-earth mining and processing to support AI semiconductor production reddit.com+8Reuters+8Reuters+8.
Without mining of critical minerals, you literally can’t build or scale AI hardware at the current pace.
Is there enough copper supply to cover the demand for water
Yes, there’s more than enough copper mined globally today to meet current water infrastructure demand. Copper pipes account for only a small fraction of total copper consumption. However, global copper supply could face shortages in the decade ahead—driven largely by competing needs such as electrification, renewable energy, and data centers.
Is there enough silver for industrial use
Today, global silver supply falls short of meeting industrial demand, and projections suggest a widening deficit through at least the late 2020s. Long‑term, without new sources or alternative materials in key sectors like solar, industrial uses may vastly exceed available supply.
In 2024, industrial silver demand is estimated at ~700 million ounces (Moz)—driven largely by renewables—while total supply grew only 2% year-on-year, leading to an estimated physical shortfall of ~180 Moz. This marked the fourth consecutive annual deficit.
Is gold the safest hedge against fiat currencies
Gold is often viewed as a reliable hedge against fiat currency devaluation, but it is not a risk-free asset. While it has historically preserved wealth during periods of inflation, currency crises, or economic instability, other hedges (like real estate, bonds, or cryptocurrency) can also be useful depending on the economic climate.