FinancialMediaGuide notes that Ruthenium, a platinum-group metal, continues to show a rapid price increase, reaching record levels in 2026. This year, the price of one ounce of ruthenium has significantly risen from $560 in 2025 to $1,750, marking a substantial jump. This rise is driven by several factors, including limited supply and growing demand driven by advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. Despite its secondary position among platinum-group metals, ruthenium has become an essential component in semiconductor manufacturing, hard drives, and other data storage devices, which is directly linked to the rapid growth of computing power and the need for reliable information storage systems.
However, unlike other metals, ruthenium is mainly produced as a by-product during the extraction of platinum-group metals, most of which come from South Africa. Recent data has shown that platinum-group metal production in South Africa decreased by 3.8% in 2025, further exacerbating the ruthenium shortage. With limited supply and increasing demand, the ruthenium deficit is expected to reach up to 203,000 ounces by 2026, putting additional pressure on the market. In such a volatile environment, ruthenium prices will continue to rise, which in turn will increase the cost of products that use this metal.
This market is attracting attention not only from manufacturers but also from investors. FinancialMediaGuide highlights that the high price volatility of ruthenium and its crucial role in high-tech products create both investment opportunities and risks for companies that rely on this metal. We believe that companies operating in the semiconductor and cloud computing sectors should carefully analyze their supply chains and possibly look for alternative materials or technologies to reduce their reliance on ruthenium. Meanwhile, investors must closely monitor the market situation and prepare for potential price fluctuations, which are inevitable in the face of this metal’s scarcity.
Financial Media Guide notes that current trends show the growing demand for computing power and the accelerated development of artificial intelligence will continue to increase the need for ruthenium. It is important for companies and investors to take these factors into account when planning their long-term strategies. In the coming years, the ruthenium market will remain high-priced and volatile, requiring flexibility and adaptability in decisions related to its procurement, production, and investment.
