These came largely from manufacturing, temporary help services and mining, while the construction sector saw job losses.

BBC: US shares fall on weak jobs data

Emperor Gold Mining, which runs Vatukoula mine, faces big losses because of a trade ban by Australian trade unions.

ECONOMIST: The Pacific

This gives it an edge over conventional mining companies as it does not incur any operational losses in volatile market conditions.

FORBES: How Bad Will Weak Prices Ding Silver Wheaton's Earnings?

Stocks of Australian mining and metals companies, reliant on Chinese demand, extended early losses after the Chinese data.

WSJ: Asian Shares Finish Mixed

Main components of the fund include Barrick Gold Corp ( ABX), Goldcorp ( GG), Newmont Mining Corp ( NEM) and Silver Wheaton Corp ( SLW), all of which sustained substantial losses on Tuesday.

FORBES: Gold Miners Suffer as Selloff Gains Speed

Mine bosses blame their losses on lack of investment and awkward geology, but a report by a British firm called International Mining Consultants cites overmanning and bad management.

ECONOMIST: Ukraine