While South Africa’s platinum producers have benefited from a surge in metal prices, mining investors are being deterred by regulatory uncertainty and power shortages.

The improved earnings show how higher metals prices are boosting mining companies’ bottom line.

Palladium is currently more expensive than gold or platinum.

A poor safety record has contributed to slower investment at some South African mines in recent years.

Sample assays include 0.74% nickel, 4.09% copper and 2.51 g/t PGEs.

Implats plans to drill 5,400 metres in four holes to test for high-grade platinum group metal mineralization.