Q&A: Insights into platinum demand and investment trends
Platinum is attracting growing attention from investors as they consider precious metals alongside other asset classes. With its unique combination of scarcity and industrial demand, the precious metal is becoming an increasingly important part of the investment conversation.
We spoke with John O'Donoghue, our General Manager, Institutions and Business Solutions here at The Perth Mint, about what's driving demand and which platinum products are proving most popular with investors and collectors.
Q: Platinum what is driving this strong demand?
We're seeing growing recognition of platinum as both a precious metal investment and a strategic industrial metal. Investors are increasingly looking beyond traditional asset classes, with growing interest in platinum's rarity and diverse demand drivers. Additionally, platinum traded at lower values relative to gold for a sustained period, with platinum prices beginning to rise materially from around May 2025. This combination has contributed to one of the strongest years for platinum sales we've seen.
Q: Why are investors adding platinum to their portfolios?
Many investors are looking to diversify their precious metals holdings. Platinum offers exposure to a different set of market dynamics than gold and silver, while still providing the benefits of owning a physical precious metal. Its scarcity and broad range of industrial applications make it an attractive option for those taking a long-term view.
Q: Which platinum products have been particularly popular at The Perth Mint?
Three standout products have been the Australian Kangaroo 2026 1oz Platinum Bullion Coin, Australian Lunar Series III 2026 Year of the Horse 1oz Platinum Bullion Coin and our Wonders of Australia - The Outback 2026 1oz Platinum Bullion Coin.
Each year, our platinum kangaroo bullion coin remains highly sought after by investors around the world, thanks to its internationally recognised design, 99.95% purity, and strong liquidity in global markets.
The Wonders of Australia series has also proven popular with both collectors and investors. Showcasing some of Australia's most iconic natural landmarks, the series combines the rarity and value of platinum with exceptional craftsmanship and unique Australian storytelling.
The table below highlights sales of the Australian Kangaroo Platinum Coin over the past nine years, demonstrating increasing global demand for platinum investment products.
Australian Kangaroo platinum coin sales
Financial Year
Ounces Sold
FY18
3,413
FY19
6,883
FY20
9,503
FY21
29,193
FY22
20,755
FY23
10,480
FY24
7,671
FY25
11,916
FY26
32,977
Q: What makes platinum unique compared to gold and silver?
Platinum occupies a unique place in the precious metals market. It is considerably rarer than gold and has significant industrial uses across sectors such as automotive manufacturing, chemical processing, medical technology, and emerging clean energy applications. This blend of investment and industrial demand creates a distinctive value proposition for investors.
Q: Have you noticed any changes in investor behaviour this year?
Yes. Investors are becoming more sophisticated in how they approach portfolio diversification. We're seeing greater interest in a broader range of precious metals, with platinum attracting attention from both seasoned investors and those new to the market. There's a growing understanding that diversification within precious metals can help balance risk and opportunity.
Q: For investors new to platinum, what are the options for buying and storing it?
Investors can buy platinum as bullion coins, minted bars, or unallocated metal. For those who prefer not to store physical metal, unallocated platinum offers a convenient alternative, allowing investors to gain exposure to platinum while The Perth Mint stores and manages the metal on their behalf. This flexibility enables investors to choose an option that best suits their investment goals and storage preferences.
Q: Looking ahead, what is your outlook for platinum?
The long-term fundamentals for platinum remain compelling. Its rarity, ongoing industrial applications, and increasing awareness among investors continue to support interest in the metal. While market conditions can fluctuate, platinum remains an established part of the global precious metals market and continues to attract attention from investors seeking portfolio diversification.
Explore The Perth Mint's range of platinum bullion and collectable coins today and discover how platinum can help diversify your investment portfolio.
Disclaimer:
Any opinions expressed in this article are subject to change without notice.
This article and any links or materials referred to in it are provided for general information only and do not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Nothing in this article constitutes financial, investment, legal, tax or other professional advice, and it should not be relied upon as a recommendation or opinion that any investment or strategy is suitable for you.
The Perth Mint is not a financial adviser. Before making any investment decision, you should consider whether the information is appropriate in light of your circumstances and consider seeking independent professional advice.
Information, data, prices, statistics and other content in this article have been obtained from sources believed by The Perth Mint to be reliable as at the date of publication. However, The Perth Mint does not represent or warrant that the information is accurate, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose, and it has not been independently verified unless stated otherwise.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, The Perth Mint excludes all liability (including, without limitation, liability arising from negligence) for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, this article or any information contained in it.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
