Investing in iron-producing companies is the main way investors can gain exposure to the iron market. Smaller iron-focused mining and exploration companies are an option, but many have struggled to stay afloat in recent years due to low prices for the commodity — taking this route requires more research. These circumstances have caused many investors to gravitate toward the world’s largest iron-mining companies, such as Vale (NYSE:VALE), Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO,NYSE:RIO,LSE:RIO), BHP (ASX:BHP,LSE:BHP,NYSE:BHP) and Fortescue Metals Group (ASX:FMG,OTCQX:FSUGY). For those considering iron investment opportunities, these majors may be a good place to start.