[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: Monopoly and "worth" of meteorites



>
>
>With all of the discussion with "worth" of a meteorite, 
>I am reminded of a time when one very rich person had
>purchased large amounts of silver to drive up prices.
>

Right, the Hunt brothers did that.  And the *intrinsic* value of
silver at the time was about $6 per/ounce (production cost).

They hedged the entire market, and drove the price up with their
artificial once sided damand, and drew investors in the *heard*
to pay $50 per/ounce.

The FTC intervened, and they were tried, fined, and went to jail
if I recall.

>Has there been an example where someone has purchased
>large amounts of a widely held meteorite only to deprive the
>market and resell the meteorite at an inflated price?

Not that I know of, other than perhaps the initial finder who
may hold the entire mass.  In that case the holder can sell, or 
sit on it for whatever price.

Doubt the FTC could, or would intervene in such a case.  But if
say an unscrupulous meteorite dealer had a great deal of money, and
say hedged a certain type of meteorite by buying everyone out, then
when a news story came out that publicised the meteorite that he
now hedged, he solicited "investors" to buy with the belief that
the price would go much higher-- Then I would bet that the FTC
would investigate.

Something to think about-- 'eh?
 
>
>I hope I'm not giving ideas to those rich enthusiasts out there  :/ 
>

Let's hope not :->

>Dan D.
>Colorado Springs, CO
>
>----------
>Archives located at:
>http://www.meteoritecentral.com/list_best.html
>
>For help, FAQ's and sub. info. visit:
>http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing_list.html
>----------
>
>
>

----------
Archives located at:
http://www.meteoritecentral.com/list_best.html

For help, FAQ's and sub. info. visit:
http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing_list.html
----------