The Mining Industry has been enjoying unprecedented amounts of wealth due to strong commodity prices sustained over the past several years. The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the TSX Venture Exchange continue to lead the world in equity financings for mining and exploration. In 2007, TSX-listed mining companies from around the world raised $19.1 billion in equity capital financing, surpassing the $12.5 billion raised in 2006. 

On the exploration side, Metals Economics Group reported that the 2007 mining exploration budget increased by 40% over 2006, showing the fifth consecutive yearly increase in mining exploration budget since the low of the cycle in 2002. A significant portion of the equity raised for exploration companies on the TSX Venture Exchange was generated by private placements of shares to investors.