Increased tensions in the Ukraine spur precious metals

Johannesburg-S.A. (Apr 25)  Palladium climbed 0.4 percent to $804.85 an ounce. Russia is the biggest producer of the metal used in catalytic converters to reduce harmful automobile emissions.

Platinum advanced 0.1 percent to $1,414.88 an ounce. The world’s largest platinum companies said they will put their latest pay offer directly to striking South African workers, bypassing their union after talks to end the 13-week walkout failed to win a breakthrough.

Silver declined 0.3 percent to $19.6059 an ounce.