While rare earths are expensive to use in producing several products used daily, the drop in demand does not come from an alternate substance that can be as effective for a fraction of the cost.

FORBES: 2012 Outlook: Uncertainty Continues For Rare Earths Prices, China Still Major Player

If the ECB action is effective, this could be a small fraction of the gains to come in the next 12-18 months.

FORBES: ECB Takes Action; U.S. Unemployment Rate Falls