As Newmont Mining proceeds with its proposed $10bn takeover of Goldcorp, rival Barrick Gold, in a shock move, instigated a hostile $18bn takeover bid of Newmont. We take a look at the drivers behind these moves, ask what the potential outcomes would mean for the companies and their shareholders, and explore the possible impact on the North American gold mining sector.

We also hear from law firm Fieldfisher about emerging and unconventional sources of finance available to cash-strapped junior mining companies, and find out why so many companies consider gaining a licence to operate the biggest challenge for the industry in 2019. And, in the wake of January’s tragic tailings dam collapse at Vale's Brazilian mine, we find out what needs to be done to make tailings dams safer.

Plus, we profile the world’s biggest mines through time, map the natural disasters that have hit South American miners in recent years, take a look at a newly discovered gemstone and find out more about a new blockchain technology being used to bring transparency to the cobalt supply chain.

Join the conversation on Twitter: @MINE_Magazine.

Molly Lempriere, editor