The spike in long-term inflation-adjusted yields combined with a stronger dollar conspired to drop the gold and silver prices along with precious metal equities. I am not panicking; however, I continue to favor my exposure to base metals such as copper and nickel for new portfolio additions. In Stock Talk, a major precious metal producer’s review provides a snapshot of the sector’s positive footing. A junior producer is closer to wrapping up its spinout transaction. A nickel explorer in Vietnam finds another massive sulfide zone. An African gold explorer advances its grassroots targets. A gold explorer in Alaska and a silver explorer in Argentina report mixed drill results. Another gold explorer adds to its land package in the high rent district of northern Ontario. A royalty/prospect generator updates its portfolio.