Topic: Pioneer Balloon Company

Daniel Flynn of the Pioneer Balloon Company reports that a global helium shortage is being driven by depressed natural gas prices. Because helium is a byproduct of natural gas extraction, low market prices—currently around $2.78 per megabit—make it unprofitable for companies to pump gas and capture the helium. Additionally, Russia's Gazprom is reportedly withholding helium exports, further tightening the global supply.