AIM Round-Up: AIM Ends the Week Up at 823.73

The Alternative Investment Market in London was up 0.15 points today, to 823.73 points, after hitting a low of 822.59 points earlier in the session. The market reached a high of 825.41 points today.
Most markets in London fell today, posting losses for a second straight week, MarketWatch reported. Weighing on stocks was positive US economic data, including the jobs report from last week and a recent budget deal by Congress, which has sparked speculation that the US Federal Reserve will begin tapering its stimulus program next week.
However, some companies on the AIM experienced gains today. Strategic Minerals (LSE:SML), a UK-based mineral exploration and development company, was a top riser, gaining GBP0.32, or 22.81 percent, to reach GBP1.75. Richland Resources (LSE:TNZ), formerly Tanzanite One, also increased on the AIM. The tanzanite mining and marketing company gained GBP0.62, or 16.13 percent, to reach GBP4.50.
Alba Mineral Resources (LSE:ALBA), a holding company focused on uranium, gold, nickel and base metals, saw major losses on the AIM today, as did other mining companies. Alba dropped more than 23 percent in price, losing GBP0.08 and hitting GBP0.25. Botswana Diamonds (LSE:BOD) also lost nearly 16 percent, falling 0.45, to GBP2.42.