The World Gold Council has established itself as the authority on the technology markets for gold
In the technology sector we create value through the development of the electronics market and accelerating the emergence of new technologies.
In order to be successful in these activities, the World Gold Council has established itself as a respected and credible authority on the technical markets for gold. Our expertise is utilised by industrial manufacturers, the research network and other stakeholders. Our extensive network of contacts includes some of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of gold-based nanoparticles, chemicals, catalysts, electronic materials, brazing alloys and dental materials.
By continuously reviewing and monitoring the global research landscape in gold science and technology, we are able to identify and progress with key market development initiatives.
Electronics market
We strive to protect demand for gold in the electronics sector, which currently amounts to approximately 300 tonnes per year. The electronics industry views gold as a key material for many components and applications, especially in telecommunications, information technology and other high performance and safety critical applications. Where the circuitry is complex or the required reliability high, gold is the preferred choice.
However, the continuing push for cost reduction is driving the electronics industry. Manufacturers are seeking the most cost effective solution for each and every component and design. As a result, some manufacturers are seeking to cut costs by replacing gold with cheaper, inferior materials.
We seek to bring balance to the material selection process, in partnership with experts in this industry. We highlight the relative merits of gold, communicating through relevant channels to the various stages of the value chain. We work to educate decision makers in order to maintain gold as the material of choice in this industry.
Emerging technologies
As well as working with the electronics industry, we also look to create additional demand by partnering with industry to more effectively support emerging technologies that use gold. We work with other world-class organisations and companies, both large and small, who are leaders in their field. Partnering with organisations enables us to accelerate the rate at which promising science relating to gold is turned into practical new uses of the metal, stimulating greater demand.
Where appropriate we make direct investments in promising technologies, where this will help new technologies to overcome hazards on the road to commercialisation.
Early-stage technologies often struggle to attract the interest of investors capable of bringing them to market. We believe our role is to help relevant gold-based technologies bridge this ‘funding gap’, so that many of them ultimately evolve into successful commercial uses, benefiting society in the longer-term.
