RE: New Map - Smaller Mali It's a positive sign the junta have turned over the government to more democratic process. But the Tuareg rebellion still bothers me.
I read there may be 3000 ECOWS troops sent into Mali to beat back the Tuareg. However, my fear is this will turn into another Afghanistan, with Mujaheed fighers in Northern Africa rallying around the Tuareg. Although, France has stated they will offer the ECOWS air cover, so it may end quick.
Overall, less risk, but still risky, since price of gold is still trending down. And GDXJ (Gold junior ETF) has hit new lows. I'm still on the sideline waiting to buy into cheap, geo-political stable plays.
full disclosure: I was looking to dip in @ .53-.65. Still waiting.