'We need to see investors realize that the problems in the US economy won't be fixed soon. That inflation is eating away at their wealth, and they need to protect it with value. Gold rising, and getting more investor interest, is our salvation.'

I know that I bring this up from time to time, but it is something that disturbs me and since I do not see it raised I am wondering if my premise is off base. I happen to agree with the above statement. However, rather than plow their monies into the juniors---of which they have absolutely no understanding---I see the individual investor putting their monies into the gold/silver ETF's. The establishment of the ETF's have given the investor an alternative to the small and quirky juniors, and the etf's allow the individual to trade in and out and play the metals sector. While they will buy the etf's and the majors, I do not see them buying into the juniors when the etf's are an easier alternative. Institutions as well will shy away from the juniors as too chancy & illiquid. The buyout seems to be one of the only options--other than going it alone (or a JV) and building a mine.

Therefore, will we continue to hear the mantra that its only a matter of time before the junior mania occurs, or will we really see it???