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The federal government wants to sell off its helium reserve. Some industries are pushing back.

Feb 21, 2024
Congress decided to sell it off before demand for helium skyrocketed, thanks to MRIs and semiconductor chipmaking.
Helium is now an essential element for things like MRI machines.
Alain Jocard/AFP via Getty Images

Helium's been rising — in price — and it's bringing businesses down

Jan 19, 2023
High helium prices, driven by shortages, played a role in Party City's bankruptcy. Here's what it means for businesses that rely on balloons.
Party City recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with the high cost of helium partly to blame.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images