Breaking
American Freedom Future
Author

admin

Browsing
Business

Meta’s head of AI research announces departure

Business 3 Mins Read

Meta’s head of artificial intelligence research announced Tuesday that she will be leaving the company. 

Joelle Pineau, the company’s vice president of AI research, announced her departure in a LinkedIn post, saying her last day at the social media company will be May 30. 

Her departure comes at a challenging time for Meta. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has made AI a top priority, investing billions of dollars in an effort to become the market leader ahead of rivals like OpenAI and Google.

Zuckerberg has said that it is his goal for Meta to build an AI assistant with more than 1 billion users and artificial general intelligence, which is a term used to describe computers that can think and take actions comparable to humans.

“As the world undergoes significant change, as the race for AI accelerates, and as Meta prepares for its next chapter, it is time to create space for others to pursue the work,” Pineau wrote. “I will be cheering from the sidelines, knowing that you have all the ingredients needed to build the best AI systems in the world, and to responsibly bring them into the lives of billions of people.”

Pineau was one of Meta’s top AI researchers and led the company’s fundamental AI research unit, or FAIR, since 2023. There, she oversaw the company’s cutting-edge computer science-related studies, some of which are eventually incorporated into the company’s core apps. 

She joined the company in 2017 to lead Meta’s Montreal AI research lab. Pineau is also a computer science professor at McGill University, where she is a co-director of its reasoning and learning lab.

Some of the projects Pineau helped oversee include Meta’s open-source Llama family of AI models and other technologies like the PyTorch software for AI developers.

Pineau’s departure announcement comes a few weeks ahead of Meta’s LlamaCon AI conference on April 29. There, the company is expected to detail its latest version of Llama. Meta Chief Product Officer Chris Cox, to whom Pineau reported to, said in March that Llama 4 will help power AI agents, the latest craze in generative AI. The company is also expected to announce a standalone app for its Meta AI chatbot, CNBC reported in February. 

“We thank Joelle for her leadership of FAIR,” a Meta spokesperson said in a statement. “She’s been an important voice for Open Source and helped push breakthroughs to advance our products and the science behind them.” 

Pineau did not reveal her next role but said she “will be taking some time to observe and to reflect, before jumping into a new adventure.”

This post appeared first on NBC NEWS

Keep Reading
Stock

The Best Five Sectors, #13

Stock 5 Mins Read

Financials take the lead.

No changes in the composition of the top 5 this week, and only one change of position within the top 5.

Financials (XLF) leapfrogged to the number one position, sending Communication Services (XLC) to the #3 position. Energy (XLE) remains #2 while Utilities (XLU) and Healthcare (XLV) remain in positions #4 and #5.

Let’s examine the details and see what the Relative Rotation Graphs tell us about the current market dynamics.

Sector Lineup

  1. (3) Financials – (XLF)*
  2. (2) Energy – (XLE)
  3. (1) Communication Services – (XLC)*
  4. (4) Utilities – (XLU)
  5. (5) Healthcare – (XLV)
  6. (6) Industrials – (XLI)
  7. (7) Consumer Staples – (XLP)
  8. (8) Real-Estate – (XLRE)
  9. (9) Consumer Discretionary – (XLY)
  10. (10) Materials – (XLB)
  11. (11) Technology – (XLK)

Weekly RRG: A Tale of Three Leaders

The weekly Relative Rotation Graph now shows three sectors firmly planted inside the leading quadrant.

XLF has rotated back into leadership after a brief sojourn, while Communication Services (XLC) maintains its strong position. Energy (XLE) is the latest entrant, crossing over into leading with a positive RRG heading—a trajectory that bodes well for continued outperformance.

Utilities (XLU) and Health Care (XLV)—our fourth and fifth-ranked sectors—currently reside in the improving quadrant. However, their strong RRG headings suggest they’ll likely leap into leading territory in the coming weeks. It’s worth noting that Health Care is flexing its muscles with the highest RS momentum value among all 11 sectors.

On the flip side, we’re seeing only two sectors with negative RRG headings—the same culprits as last week. Technology (XLK) is pushing further into the lagging quadrant, while Consumer Discretionary (XLY) is rapidly approaching a crossover from weakening to lagging. This persistent weakness in these typically high-flying sectors is something to keep an eye on as it coincides with general market weakness.

Daily RRG: Short-Term Shifts

Zooming in on the daily RRG, we get a more nuanced picture of short-term rotations. Financials are holding steady in the leading quadrant with a neutral heading—there has been little movement over the past week.

Energy, which boasts the highest RS ratio, is losing some momentum. However, given its elevated RS ratio, this is likely just a temporary setback.

Utilities and Health Care are showing some interesting moves on the daily chart. XLU is currently in the weakening quadrant with a negative heading, but XLV is starting to curl back up—a positive sign that aligns with its weekly chart momentum.

XLC’s daily tail is painting an intriguing picture. It’s barely inside the lagging quadrant, but its positive heading pointing towards leading suggests it may soon start supporting the positive direction we see on the weekly chart.

In the bottom half of the rankings, we see some weekly weakness confirmations. Technology is rolling over in the improving quadrant, while sectors like industrials and materials are rotating from leading to weakening, all of which aligns with their lower positions in the portfolio ranking.

Financials (XLF)

XLF has bounced off support around 47, but the price chart still looks precarious.

The relative strength picture, however, is much more encouraging. We’re seeing a clear uptrend in the raw RS line, which is pulling both RRG lines higher. Keep an eye on that 47 level as key price support.

Energy (XLE)

Energy is currently trading in a range between roughly 84-85 and 98.

The real action is in the relative strength- we’re seeing a breakout from a falling channel, which is now pulling both RRG lines above 100.

This is what’s driving XLE’s move into the leading quadrant.

Communication Services (XLC)

XLC is holding above support around 94, but only just.

A break below 93-94 could trigger more downside.

Relative strength still looks good, but the raw RS line is at the top of its rising trend channel. The high RS ratio reading gives some wiggle room, but it’s a situation to monitor closely.

Utilities (XLU)

Utilities remain stuck in a trading range, which is keeping its raw RS line range-bound as well.

It’s strong enough to keep the RRG lines rising, but we’ll need to see a relative strength breakout to push XLU into the leading quadrant.

Health Care (XLV)

Health Care is bumping up against resistance near 150 and remains range-bound.

A potential head-and-shoulders pattern is forming, but support is still a ways off around 135.

Relative strength is pushing against resistance, and with both RRG lines rising, XLV looks poised to cross into the leading quadrant soon.

Portfolio Performance Update

After last week’s hiccup, the RRG portfolio has not only erased its underperformance but actually flipped to outperformance.

As of last week, the portfolio stands at -4.86% YTD, compared to the S&P 500’s -4.96%. That’s a reversal from a 1.4% underperformance to a 10 basis point outperformance — not too shabby for a week’s work.

The market is sending plenty of mixed signals, but the sector rotation story is becoming clearer. Financials are stepping up, Energy is making moves, and the traditionally defensive sectors are showing strength. Meanwhile, Tech and Consumer Discretionary continue to lag—a trend that could have significant implications if it persists.

These rotations can shift quickly, so stay nimble and keep your eyes on the charts. The market never sleeps, and neither should your analysis.

#StayAlert –Julius

Keep Reading
Stock

Volatility Ahead: What Investors Need to Know Right Now

Stock 4 Mins Read

It was an ugly close to another roller-coaster trading week as the stock market struggled with several moving parts. Wednesday’s Evening Doji Star in the S&P 500 ($SPX) showed its power. The trading week didn’t end on a pretty note. 

The S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite ($COMPQ), and Dow Jones Industrial Average ($INDU) all closed lower and are trading below their 200-day simple moving average (SMA). And the selloff is across the board. It’s not concentrated in the heavily weighted stocks. 

The headwinds: Auto tariffs, declining consumer confidence, and hotter-than-expected PCE data. These have raised investor fear once again. The Cboe Volatility Index ($VIX) spiked higher on Friday, closing at 21.65.

From a sector perspective, Utilities was the only S&P sector that closed in the green on Friday, which reiterates defensive investor sentiment. This could continue for as long as investors worry about inflation and weakening U.S. economic growth. In addition to defensive sectors, other areas of the market show some bullish strength. 

What Are Investors Eyeing? 

Bond prices are rising. The daily chart of the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (TLT) is trading above its 50- and 100-day SMA. A break above the 200-day SMA would set a positive tone for bond prices although if past price action is of any value, TLT didn’t have much success the last couple of times it crossed above the 200-day. It could be different this time.

FIGURE 1. BOND PRICES SHOW SIGNS OF LIFE. Bond prices are now starting to rise. Will we see an RSI above 70 when TLT crosses above its 200-day simple moving average? Chart source: StockCharts.com. For educational purposes.

The relative strength index (RSI) in the lower panel is above 50. The last couple of times TLT crossed above its 200-day SMA, RSI failed to cross above 70, indicating a lack of momentum. However, if TLT crosses above its 200-day SMA and coincides with an RSI cross above 70, that could be an alert for a gain in momentum. 

Bonds were starting to trend higher after hitting their January lows but that uptrend consolidated from early March. There needs to be an upside follow-through for an uptrend to resume in bonds. There’s still time for it to play out but keep your eyes on this chart for the next few weeks.

Gold and silver prices have also been on a tear. Gold hit an all-time high on Friday while silver pulled back on Friday after Thursday’s price spike. Overall, the uptrend is still intact in both metals.

If you’re a regular reader of our ChartWatchers Newsletter, you’ll recognize the chart below which looks at the performance of various asset classes.  

FIGURE 2. PERFCHART OF DIFFERENT MARKETS. Gold and silver have outperformed most other asset groups. Chart source: StockCharts.com. For educational purposes.

Note how gold and silver prices are outperforming equities.  

Last but not least, let’s analyze the performance of the automobile sector, the most impacted industry group this week. Automobile stocks continue to slide. The daily chart of the Dow Jones US Automobiles Index ($DJUSAU) below displays a clear picture of the state of the industry. 

FIGURE 3. THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY. Things aren’t looking great for the automobile industry. After attempting to cross above the 200-day SMA, the Dow Jones Automobiles Index fell and is trending lower. Chart source: StockCharts.com. For educational purposes.

After a healthy run in the second half of 2024, the industry has been in a steep decline, with any attempts of a rally being short-lived. On March 25, $DJUSAU crossed above its 200-day SMA but failed to hold above it. There’ll be more tariff news between now and April 2. So be prepared for more volatility in the automobile industry.  

The Bottom Line

Q1 has been pretty dismal, mainly due to tariff policies. There’s more to come. With “Liberation Day” approaching, expect more volatility in the stock market. There’s also the March jobs report on Friday. Equity futures are trading lower ahead of Monday’s open. 

We’ll end with a chart that every investor should be monitoring closely as we get through the next few months—a three-year weekly chart of the S&P 500. Feel free to save this to your ChartLists.

FIGURE 4. WEEKLY CHART OF THE S&P 500 INDEX. The index attempted to move beyond its July and August highs but didn’t succeed. With more tariff news on the horizon, will the S&P 500 succeed or will it move toward its March highs? Chart source: StockCharts.com. For educational purposes.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The ideas and strategies should never be used without first assessing your own personal and financial situation, or without consulting a financial professional.

Keep Reading
Stock

S&P 500 Drops Quickly to Test Key Support Amid Rising Volatility

Stock 14 Mins Read

Thank You!

I’ve been writing at StockCharts.com for nearly 20 years now and many of you have supported my company, EarningsBeats.com, and I certainly want to show my appreciation for all of your loyalty. I believe we’re at a major crossroads in the stock market as the S&P 500 tests the recent price low from earlier in March. I called for a 2025 correction at our MarketVision 2025 event on January 4, 2025, to start the year and now it’s a reality. We decided at that time to add quarterly updates to our MarketVision series and our first update (Q1 update) is being held today at 5:30pm ET. I would like to invite everyone to join EarningsBeats.com and join me later today. We will record the event for those who cannot attend live.

Even if you decide not to join as an EB.com member, I do want to provide you my latest Weekly Market Report that we send out to our members at the start of every week, in addition to our Daily Market Report, which is published Tuesdays through Fridays.

I hope you enjoy!

MarketVision 2025 Q1 Update

Join us for our MarketVision 2025 Q1 update at 5:30pm ET today. This is an exclusive event for our annual members. If you’re already an annual member, room instructions will be sent to you in a separate email.

Not yet an annual member? Save $200 on membership TODAY ONLY. This offer will expire at the start of today’s event, so CLICK HERE for more information and details!

If you recall, on Saturday, January 4, 2025, I provided my annual forecast, which included my belief that we’d see a 10% on the S&P 500. That 10% correction is now in the rear view mirror, but what will happen from here? A lot has changed and we must remain objective as to where we might go. I’ll provide you my latest thoughts on this during today’s event.

I hope to see you at 5:30pm ET!

ChartLists Updated

The following ChartLists were updated over the weekend:

  • Strong Earnings (SECL)
  • Strong Future Earnings (SFECL)
  • Raised Guidance (RGCL)

These ChartLists are available to download into your StockCharts Extra or Pro account, if you have a StockCharts membership. Otherwise, we can send you an Excel file with the stocks included in these ChartLists in order to download them into other platforms. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at “support@earningsbeats.com”.

Weekly Market Recap

Major Indices

Sectors

Top 10 Industries Last Week

Bottom 10 Industries Last Week

Top 10 Stocks – S&P 500/NASDAQ 100

Bottom 10 Stocks – S&P 500/NASDAQ 100

Big Picture

The monthly PPO and monthly RSI are both moving lower now, but remember, we have not ever seen a secular bear market that did not coincide with a negative monthly PPO and a monthly RSI below 40. I believe we’ll see this market weakness end LONG BEFORE we see either of those technical developments on the above chart.

Sustainability Ratios

Here’s the latest look at our key intraday ratios as we follow where the money is traveling on an INTRADAY basis (ignoring gaps):

QQQ:SPY

Relative weakness in the QQQ:SPY, including and excluding gaps, has turned back down in a big way. That’s not what you want to see from a bullish perspective. We must remain on guard for potential short-term downside action, especially if key closing price support at 5521 fails on the S&P 500.

IWM:QQQ

Small caps (IWM) seem to be performing better than the aggressive, Mag 7 led NASDAQ 100, but that’s not saying a lot when you look at the IWM’s absolute performance in the bottom panel. Perhaps we’ll still get the small-cap run that we’ve been looking for over the past year, but it’ll likely need to be accompanied by a much more dovish Fed and with the short-term fed funds rate falling.

XLY:XLP

I mentioned last week that this chart was the biggest positive of the prior week. I suppose I now need to say it’s the biggest negative of last week because it did an abrupt about-face. It appears that the options expiration and oversold bounce we enjoyed for over a week have ended. We haven’t broken back to new relative lows, which would obviously be bearish, but we did back a lot of ground that we had previously made up. The XLY:XLP ratio is one of the most important in the stock market, as far as I’m concerned. Watching it turn back down is not a great feeling, and a new upcoming relative low would only make it worse.

Sentiment

5-day SMA ($CPCE)

Sentiment indicators are contrarian indicators. When they show extreme bullishness, we need to be a bit cautious and when they show extreme pessimism, it could be time to become much more aggressive. Major market bottoms are carved out when pessimism is at its absolute highest level.

When an elevated Cboe Volatility Index ($VIX) sends a signal that we could see pain ahead, which is exactly the message sent recently as the VIX approached 30, I usually turn my attention to a rising 5-day SMA of the equity-only put-call ratio ($CPCE) to help identify market bottoms. Once the stock market turns emotionally and begins to show fear and panic, key price support levels tend to fail, and a high reading in the VIX, combined with a huge reversal on the S&P 500 (think capitulation), usually are typical ingredients to establish a key bottom.

We’re finally starting to see some higher daily CPCE readings, which suggests that options traders are growing much more nervous, and that’s a good thing if we’re going to try to carve out a meaningful market bottom. The last four days have seen readings of 0.65, 0.71, 0.72, and 0.68. That’s not quite high enough to grow more convinced of an impending bottom in stocks, but it’s light years better than what we’ve seen during any other recent market selloffs.

253-day SMA ($CPCE)

We’re coming off an extended run higher in the benchmark S&P 500, where we topped on February 19. The long-term picture with sentiment is much different than it was 1.5 to 2 years ago. Back then, everyone was bearish, leading to an important market bottom and a subsequent rally to new all-time highs. We could use more bearishness in options to set us up for another rally to all-time highs. Based on this chart, we’re not there yet.

Volatility ($VIX)

Here’s the current view of the VIX:

There was one key development in the VIX. From studying the VIX long-term, whenever a top has been reached, and significant selling ensues, the VIX typically spikes into the 20s or 30s before we see some sort of a rebound, like the one we saw recently. When these bounces have been part of bear market counter rallies, the VIX has never dropped below the 16-17 support range. So for those looking for this current correction to morph into a bear market, the hope is absolutely alive and kicking. My interpretation is that bear markets require a certain level of uncertainty and fear. The VIX remaining above that 16-17 level is our proof that the market environment for further selling still exists. In the above chart, the VIX fell to 17 and then quickly reversed and today hit a high of 24.80.

Based on this one signal alone, I cannot rule out further selling ahead and a possible cyclical bear market, as opposed to the much more palatable correction.

Long-Term Trade Setup

Since beginning this Weekly Market Report in September 2023, I’ve discussed the long-term trade candidates below that I really like. Generally, these stocks have excellent long-term track records, and many pay nice dividends that mostly grow every year. Only in specific cases (exceptions) would I consider a long-term entry into a stock that has a poor or limited long-term track record and/or pays no dividends. Below is a quick recap of how I viewed their long-term technical conditions as of one week ago:

  • JPM – nice bounce off the recent 50-week SMA test
  • BA – up more than 20% in less than 2 weeks; 190-192 likely to prove a difficult level to pierce
  • FFIV – 20-week EMA test successful thus far
  • MA – another with a 20-week SMA test holding
  • GS – 10% bounce off its recent 50-week SMA test
  • FDX – lengthy four-month decline finally tested, and held, price support near 220
  • AAPL – weakness has not cleared best price support on the chart at 200 or just below
  • CHRW – testing significant 95 level, where both price and 50-day SMA support reside
  • JBHT – has fallen slightly beneath MAJOR support around 150
  • STX – 85 support continues to hold
  • HSY – did it just print a reverse right shoulder bottom on its weekly chart?
  • DIS – trendless as weekly moving averages are not providing support or resistance
  • MSCI – 3-year uptrend remains in play, though it’s been in a rough 6-7 week stretch
  • SBUX – first critical price test at all-time high near 116 failed miserably; support resides at 85
  • KRE – looking to establish short-term bottom at 55, with 2-year uptrend intact
  • ED – showing strength in March for 9th time in 10 years, moving to new all-time high
  • AJG – continues one of most consistent and dependable uptrends, trading just below all-time high
  • NSC – testing 230 price support as transportation woes continue
  • RHI – has broken recent price support in upper-50s; searching for new bottom with 4.4% dividend yield
  • ADM – struggled again at 20-week EMA, 45 represents a significant test of long-term uptrend
  • BG – approaching 4-year price support at 65 after failed test of declining 20-week EMA
  • CVS – bottom now seems light years away as CVS trades nearly 1-year high
  • IPG – how long can it hold onto multi-year price support at 26?
  • HRL – still bound between price support at 27.50 and 20-week EMA resistance at 30.15
  • DE – still trending above its rising 20-week EMA

Keep in mind that our Weekly Market Reports favor those who are more interested in the long-term market picture. Therefore, the list of stocks above are stocks that we believe are safer (but nothing is ever 100% safe) to own with the long-term in mind. Nearly everything else we do at EarningsBeats.com favors short-term momentum trading, so I wanted to explain what we’re doing with this list and why it’s different.

Also, please keep in mind that I’m not a Registered Investment Advisor (and neither is EarningsBeats.com nor any of its employees) and am only providing (mostly) what I believe to be solid dividend-paying stocks for the long term. Companies periodically go through adjustments, new competition, restructuring, management changes, etc. that can have detrimental long-term impacts. Neither the stock price nor the dividend is ever guaranteed. I simply point out interesting stock candidates for longer-term investors. Do your due diligence and please consult with your financial advisor before making any purchases or sales of securities.

Looking Ahead

Upcoming Earnings

Very few companies will report quarterly results until mid-April. The following list of companies is NOT a list of all companies scheduled to report quarterly earnings, however, just key reports, so please be sure to check for earnings dates of any companies that you own. Any company in BOLD represents a stock in one of our portfolios and the amount in parenthesis represents the market capitalization of each company listed:

  • Monday: None
  • Tuesday: None
  • Wednesday: None
  • Thursday: None
  • Friday: None

Key Economic Reports

  • Monday: March Chicago PMI
  • Tuesday: March PMI manufacturing, March ISM manufacturing, February construction spending, Feb JOLTS
  • Wednesday: March ADP employment report, February factory orders
  • Thursday: Initial jobless claims, March ISM services
  • Friday: March nonfarm payrolls, unemployment rate, average hourly earnings

Historical Data

I’m a true stock market historian. I am absolutely PASSIONATE about studying stock market history to provide us more clues about likely stock market direction and potential sectors/industries/stocks to trade. While I don’t use history as a primary indicator, I’m always very aware of it as a secondary indicator. I love it when history lines up with my technical signals, providing me with much more confidence to make particular trades.

Below you’ll find the next two weeks of historical data and tendencies across the three key indices that I follow most closely:

S&P 500 (since 1950)

  • Mar 31: -7.16%
  • Apr 1: +67.49%
  • Apr 2: +17.08%
  • Apr 3: -0.40%
  • Apr 4: -17.99%
  • Apr 5: +68.25%
  • Apr 6: +45.38%
  • Apr 7: -48.59%
  • Apr 8: +62.64%
  • Apr 9: +60.32%
  • Apr 10: +47.37%
  • Apr 11: -29.33%
  • Apr 12: +63.88%
  • Apr 13: -21.35%

NASDAQ (since 1971)

  • Mar 31: +39.81%
  • Apr 1: +83.56%
  • Apr 2: +18.47%
  • Apr 3: -86.48%
  • Apr 4: -70.46%
  • Apr 5: +112.55%
  • Apr 6: +26.71%
  • Apr 7: -38.23%
  • Apr 8: +44.64%
  • Apr 9: +60.64%
  • Apr 10: +47.74%
  • Apr 11: -51.08%
  • Apr 12: +33.04%
  • Apr 13: -0.08%

Russell 2000 (since 1987)

  • Mar 31: +78.83%
  • Apr 1: +27.91%
  • Apr 2: +18.08%
  • Apr 3: -113.26%
  • Apr 4: -75.19%
  • Apr 5: +101.16
  • Apr 6: +51.29%
  • Apr 7: -90.50%
  • Apr 8: +59.63%
  • Apr 9: +137.22%
  • Apr 10: +5.20%
  • Apr 11: -80.66%
  • Apr 12: +45.00%
  • Apr 13: -37.09%

The S&P 500 data dates back to 1950, while the NASDAQ and Russell 2000 information date back to 1971 and 1987, respectively.

Final Thoughts

As I mentioned last week, I’m sticking with my belief that the S&P 500 ultimate low in 2025 will mark a correction (less than 20% drop) rather than a bear market (more than 20% drop). But a bear market cannot be ruled out. Honestly, I think sentiment ($CPCE) must turn much more bearish. This morning, we had another gap down and early selling and this is beginning to take a toll on options traders as they’re now starting to grow more bearish. As an example, check out this morning’s equity-only put call ratio at Cboe.com:

These Cboe.com readings are very high and show a definite shift in sentiment among options traders. Intense selling pressure and lots of equity puts being traded, relative to equity calls, help to mark bottoms.

Here are a few things to consider in the week ahead:

  • The Rebound. It ended rather quickly last week. I mentioned it’s a rebound until it isn’t. We moved right up to 5782 price resistance on the S&P 500 and the bears took over.
  • The Roll Over. We’re now in rollover mode, but the S&P 500 quickly lost 300 points from 5782 to today’s early low of 5488, which tested key short-term price support from March 13, where we printed a low close of 5521. Can the bulls hold onto support?
  • Nonfarm payrolls. This report will be out on Friday morning and current expectations are for March jobs (131,000) to fall below the February number of 151,000. Also, unemployment is expected to move up slightly from 4.1% to 4.2%. Should any of these numbers come in weaker than expected, the Fed could be in a box and Wall Street could sense it by selling off hard.
  • Sentiment. As I’ve said before, once the VIX moves beyond 20, not many good things happen to stocks. Selling can escalate very quickly as market makers go “on vacation.” Many times, we don’t find a bottom until retail options traders begin buying puts hand over fist. That could be underway right now.
  • Rotation. Rotation led us to where we are now, we need to continue to monitor where the money is going.
  • Seasonality. There is one real positive here. We’re about to move from the “2nd half of Q1”, which historically has produced annualized returns of +5.05% (4 percentage points BELOW the average annual S&P 500 return of +9%), to the “1st half of Q2”, which historically has produced annualized returns of 13.08% (4 percentage points ABOVE the average annual S&P 500 return of +9%). This half-quarter trails only the 1st and 2nd halves of Q4 in terms of half-quarter performance.
  • Manipulation. Yep, it’s starting again, just like it did during 2022’s cyclical bear market, which ultimately marked a critical S&P 500 bottom. We’ve done a ton of research on intraday trading behavior on our key indices, and many market-moving stocks like the Mag 7. Our Excel spreadsheet has been made available to all ANNUAL members, where you can see the manipulation for yourself.

Happy trading!

Tom

Keep Reading
Stock

DP Trading Room: Magnificent Seven Stocks in Bear Markets

Stock 3 Mins Read

You may not know it, but all of the Magnificent Seven stocks are in bear markets. Given they are such an integral part of the major indexes, we have to believe that the market will follow suit and continue lower in its own bear market. The SP500 is in correction territory already.

Given the decline in the market it was especially interesting to see what the condition of the market is right now. Carl gave us his overview of market conditions with a review of the DP Signal Tables and key market indicators.

In the question period of the show, Carl and Erin gave their opinions on NVDA and Bonds in particular.

Erin caught us up on Sector Rotation where we are seeing clear patterns of market rotation from aggressive sectors to defensive sectors. She took a deep dive into key sectors to include Energy and Utilities.

Erin finished up the program taking viewer symbol requests to look for long candidates and determine key support and resistance levels.

01:02 Market Overview

13:45 Magnificent Seven

20:28 Questions

31:00 Sector Rotation & Under the Hood Sector Charts

39:00 Symbol Requests

Don’t forget! We are running a 2-week free trial on any of our products. Just use coupon code: DPTRIAL2 at checkout. Subscribe here: https://www.decisionpoint.com/products.html

You can join us in the free DecisionPoint Trading Room on Mondays at Noon ET! Just register once here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D6iAp-C1S6SebVpQIYcC6g#/registration

The DP Alert: Your First Stop to a Great Trade!

Before you trade any stock or ETF, you need to know the trend and condition of the market. The DP Alert gives you all you need to know with an executive summary of the market’s current trend and condition. It not only covers the market! We look at Bitcoin, Yields, Bonds, Gold, the Dollar, Gold Miners and Crude Oil! Only $50/month! Or, use our free trial to try it out for two weeks using coupon code: DPTRIAL2. Click HERE to subscribe NOW!

Learn more about DecisionPoint.com:

Watch the latest episode of the DecisionPointTrading Room on DP’s YouTube channel here!

Try us out for two weeks with a trial subscription!

Use coupon code: DPTRIAL2 Subscribe HERE!

Technical Analysis is a windsock, not a crystal ball. –Carl Swenlin

(c) Copyright 2025 DecisionPoint.com

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The ideas and strategies should never be used without first assessing your own personal and financial situation, or without consulting a financial professional. Any opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author, and do not in any way represent the views or opinions of any other person or entity.

DecisionPoint is not a registered investment advisor. Investment and trading decisions are solely your responsibility. DecisionPoint newsletters, blogs or website materials should NOT be interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security or to take any specific action.

Helpful DecisionPoint Links:

Trend Models

Price Momentum Oscillator (PMO)

On Balance Volume

Swenlin Trading Oscillators (STO-B and STO-V)

ITBM and ITVM

SCTR Ranking

Bear Market Rules

Keep Reading
Investing

What’s the Next US Copper Mine? 26 Copper Projects to Watch

Investing 18 Mins Read

Companies with upcoming copper mines in the US could be poised to benefit from tailwinds in the sector, including the new administration promising to cut ‘red tape’ for critical minerals projects.

Copper demand is climbing quickly in recent years because of the rapid urbanization of the global south as well as the developing energy transition sectors. However, current copper mines are increasing in age and there is a lack of new copper mines to replace them, both due to limited greenfield exploration and long permitting times.

This has put the world’s copper supply in a difficult situation, and experts expect to see supply deficits begin to emerge in 2025.

Resource nationalism is also increasing in recent times, with countries heavily focused on building their own critical minerals supply chains. This caused the Biden administration to list copper as a critical mineral in late 2024, which would allow projects accelerated permits, investment incentives and national security enhancements.

Additionally, after new US President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, Trump issued an executive order that would slash red tape to increase domestic critical mineral production, including copper. The move has caused significant environmental concerns, but it could support US copper companies that have previously struggled to receive permits.

In this article we dive into more than 25 US copper projects in the construction, restarting or permitting phase, based on data from mine database Mining Data Online (MDO). MDO’s database focuses on publicly traded mining companies, so there may be US copper mines being developed by private companies that are not in this list. This article is based on data provided by MDO as of March 2025.

In this article

    Next US copper mine: Copper mines under construction

    Black Butte project

    Ownership: 87% – Sandfire Resources (TSXV:SFR) –
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: SEDEX, Stratabound

    Once it enters production, the Black Butte copper project in Montana is expected to produce 120,000 metric tons (MT) of copper concentrate annually. The site’s Johnny Lee deposit hosts proven and probable reserves of 8.8 million MT, containing 226,100 MT of copper at a grade of 2.6 percent.

    Sandfire had previously begun Phase I construction to mine the Johnny Lee deposit, but a Montana district court ruling overturned the prior Record of Decision in 2022 halted it. However, the Montana Supreme Court ruled in Sandfire’s favor in Q1 2024. With its mining permit reinstated, the company is now assessing Black Butte’s economics as it moves toward a final investment decision.

    Florence project

    Ownership: Taseko Mines (TSX:TKO,NYSE:TGB)
    Mine type: In-Situ
    Deposit type: Porphyry

    Located in Central Arizona, the Florence project is expected to produce 85 million pounds of copper annually. According to MDO, Florence will be one of the world’s most efficient copper producers, and copper produced on site will meet the London Metal Exchange grade A standard.

    Overall, the site’s proven and probable mineral reserves are 2.32 billion pounds of contained copper from 320 million MT of ore with an average grade of 0.36 percent copper. Construction at the site reached the 56 percent mark in December of 2024 and is on track for its first production by the end of 2025.

    Idaho Cobalt Operation

    Ownership: Jervois Global (ASX:JRV,OTC Pink:JRVMQ)
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Vein / narrow vein, sediment-hosted

    The Idaho Cobalt Operation (ICO) is located in Northern Idaho near the border with Montana. Even though the project is focused on cobalt production, over the seven-year life of the mine, it is planned to produce more than 15,000 MT of copper.

    While the ICO is still listed as under construction, Jervois Global halted development of the mine in March 2023 due to falling cobalt prices. As of Q4 2024, construction activities remain suspended and the company is focused on maintenance and environmental compliance.

    Next US copper mine: Mines being restarted

    Gunnison mine

    Ownership: Gunnison Copper (TSX:GCU,OTCQB:GCUMF)
    Mine type: In-Situ Recovery, Open Pit
    Deposit type: Skarn

    Gunnison Copper, previously named Excelsior Mining, is currently developing its Gunnison mine in Arizona as an open pit mining operation. Gunnison was originally scheduled to begin operating in 2020 as an in-situ recovery project, but startup was delayed due to low flow rates. Gunnison Copper has been evaluating different alternatives to overcome the challenges and obtained permits to begin well simulation using small-scale, shallow-level hydraulic fracking.

    However, the company determined that an open-pit operation has ‘substantially improved viability’ compared to the ISR operation at this time, and is now advancing the permitting process for the open pit. Gunnison intends to maintain the option of its fully permitted ISR operation and well stimulation.

    Once the open-pit mine is in operation, Gunnison estimates an average annual production of 167 million pounds of copper cathode. The probable mineral reserve for the in-situ operation as of 2016 is 4.5 billion pounds of copper from 782.2 million MT of ore with an average grade of 0.29 percent. The open pit’s 2024 mineral resource estimate showed a measured and indicated resource of 5.1 billion pounds of copper from 831.6 million MT of ore with an average copper grade of 0.31 percent.

    Sunshine mine

    Ownership: Sunshine Silver Mining and Refining
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Vein / narrow vein, mesothermal

    The Sunshine mine has seen production dating back to 1904, with the most recent being in 2008. The site sits within one of the most prolific mining areas of the Coeur d’Alene district in Idaho, United States. Since acquiring the project in 2010, Sunshine Silver Mining and Refining has spent more than US$100 million on-site upgrades and developments with the intent of restarting production before the end of the decade.

    According to MDO, the Sunshine property hosts “one of the highest-grade, large primary silver deposits in the world.” Once restarted, it will also produce copper and several other metals as byproducts, with planned average annual copper production of 1.12 million pounds.

    Next US copper mine: Copper mines in the permitting stage

    Antler project

    Ownership: New World Resources (ASX:NWC,OTC Pink:NWCBF)
    State: Arizona
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS)
    Commodities: Copper, zinc, lead, silver, gold

    As of February 2025, New World Resource’s Antler project is on track to begin construction activities in H2 2025 and complete the permitting process by early 2026. Federally, the only permit remaining is the Mine Plan of Operations, which the Bureau of Land Management stated will be evaluated under an Environmental Assessment. If things proceed as planned, the company will begin shipping concentrate by 2027.

    The site hosts numerous targets and a probable copper reserve of 180,000 MT from 11 million MT of ore with an average grade of 1.6 percent copper. The company anticipates a mine life of 12.2 years with an average annual copper production of 36 million pounds and copper equivalent production of 30,100 MT.

    Arctic project

    Ownership:
     50% – Trilogy Metals (NYSE:TMQ)
    50% – South32 (ASX:S32,OTC Pink:SHTLF)
    State: Alaska
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: VMS
    Commodities: Copper, zinc, lead, silver, gold

    The Arctic project is currently in the feasibility stage. Due to its location, the only significant federal permit required is the 404 wetlands permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. The remaining permits are issued at the state level.

    The site’s indicated copper resource is 2.35 billion pounds from 35.7 million MT of ore with an average grade of 2.98 percent copper. An additional 189 million pounds are inferred from 4.5 million MT of ore with an average grade of 1.92 percent. Once complete, the mine is expected to produce 234,000 MT of copper annually.

    Back Forty project

    Ownership: Gold Resource (NYSEAMERICAN:GORO)
    State: Michigan
    Mine type: Open pit and underground
    Deposit type: VMS, breccia pipe/stockwork
    Commodities: Gold, silver, copper, zinc

    Back Forty is planned as two open pits, an underground mine and a processing plant. Once fully permitted, Gold Resource plans for a 21 month construction period before mining commences at its Pinwheel open pit. In 2021, a judge denied a wetlands permit for Back Forty due to its impact on the surrounding area. MDO reports that Gold Resource’s revised mine plan avoids impact on the region’s wetlands, which should support the mine permitting process.

    Back Forty will have the capacity to produce 6.8 million pounds of copper concentrate annually. The project hosts an open pit indicated copper resource of 74 million pounds from 9.36 million MT of ore with an average grade of 0.36 percent copper, and an underground indicated copper resource of 47 million pounds from 5.1 million MT with an average grade of 0.41 percent.

    Cactus Mine project

    Ownership: Arizona Sonoran Copper (TSX:ASCU,OTCQX:ASCUF)
    State: Arizona
    Mine type: Open pit and underground
    Deposit type: Porphyry
    Commodities: Copper

    Cactus is a brownfield development project in Central Arizona with a 5.5 kilometer mine trend. The site hosts the past-producing Sacaton mine, a mining stockpile and three primary deposits: Cactus East, Cactus West and Parks/Salyer. Arizona Sonoran Copper is working to complete a pre-feasibility study for the second half of 2025.

    A Q3 2024 preliminary economic assessment( PEA) outlined a 31 year mine life with on-site production of 86,000 short tons of LME Grade A copper cathode per year. In total, the site has a measured and indicated resource of 7.29 billion pounds from 632.7 million MT of ore at an average grade of 0.576 percent copper.

    CK Gold project

    Ownership: US Gold (NASDAQ:USAU)
    State: Wyoming
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry, breccia pipe/stockwork
    Commodities: Copper, gold, silver

    In 2024, the CK Gold project achieved several permitting milestones. In April, US Gold received its mine operating permit, and in November, its subsidiary, Gold King, received its final permit approval from the air quality division of the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. These permits were the final hurdles needed before the company began developing the project.

    The company plans to produce a copper concentrate that contains gold, copper and silver. CK has a significant copper resource with proven and probable reserves totaling 248 million pounds from 70.4 million MT at an average grade of 0.18 percent copper. US Gold is working towards a feasibility study, and aims to begin construction in late-2025 or 2026 with first concentrate production in 2027 or 2028.

    Copper Flat project

    Ownership: THEMAC Resources (TSXV:MAC,OTC Pink:MACQF)
    State: New Mexico
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry, breccia pipe/stockwork, hydrothermal
    Commodities: Copper, molybdenum, gold, silver

    Copper Flat is a brownfield project built on a site that has seen mining dating back to the 1890s, with various companies working to bring the site back online since the 1980s. To date, THEMAC has completed its definitive feasibility and environmental studies and has received several key Federal and State permits. The state mining permit is in the advanced stage.

    The site hosts a proven and probable copper reserve of 579.21 million pounds from 113.08 million MT of ore at an average grade of 0.3 percent copper.

    Copperwood project

    Ownership: Highland Copper (TSXV:HI,OTCQB:HDRSF)
    State: Michigan
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Sediment-hosted
    Commodities: Copper, silver

    Copperwood is a fully permitted project and is in active development. Highland spent much of 2024 working to fulfill its obligations to prepare the site as required under the terms of the wetlands and streams permit. Its next development steps are metallurgic testing using ultra-fine flotation technology and community engagement as it moves towards a construction decision.

    Copperwood hosts proven and probable reserves of 25.7 million MT of ore at an average grade of 1.45 percent copper for 820 million pounds of contained copper. Highland expects to produce 65 million pounds of saleable copper per year for a total of 675 million pounds over the mine’s 10.3 year life.

    Copper World Complex

    Ownership: Hudbay Minerals (TSX:HBM,NYSE:HBM)
    State: Arizona
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry, skarn
    Commodities: Copper, molybdenum, silver, gold

    Copper World is one of the largest copper projects in development in the United States, according to Hudbay. The company is currently in the permitting stage for Phase 1 at Copper World, which will consist of four open pits with an expected mine life of 20 years. The second phase will expand the operation and extend the life of the mine further.

    The site has received all necessary state permits to begin construction and operation after it received its air quality permit in January 2025. Hudbay is expecting annual average copper production of 92,000 MT during the first 10 years and 85,000 MT over the 20 year mine life. In year five, it plans to begin copper cathode production to supply the US market.

    CuMo project

    Ownership: Idaho Copper (OTC Pink:COPR)
    State: Idaho
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry, vein/narrow vein, breccia pipe/stockwork
    Commodities: Molybdenum, copper, silver, tungsten, rhenium, sulfuric acid

    While Idaho Copper’s focus with CuMo is developing one of the world’s largest molybdenum mines, the company also plans to produce an average of 84 million pounds of copper metal in concentrate per year. CuMo hosts a significant measured and indicated copper resource of 3.81 million pounds.

    Idaho Copper is working towards releasing an updated PEA during the first half of 2025. Additionally, the company expects to begin environmental work for its environmental impact statement sometime this year.

    Empire project

    Ownership:
    80% – Phoenix Copper (LSE:PXC,OTCQB:PXCLF)
    20% – ExGen Resources (TSXV:EXG,OTC Pink:BXXRF)
    State: Idaho
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Skarn, vein/narrow vein, breccia pipe/stockwork
    Commodities: Copper, gold, silver

    Empire is a brownfield project planned as an open-pit mine atop historic underground workings. Phoenix Copper is developing its mine plan for the Idaho Department of Lands and for federal review by the National Environmental Policy Act. The company is aiming to complete the permitting project in 2025 and begin production in 2026 using on-site, pre-owned milling equipment it purchased in 2024.

    Empire’s proven and probable copper reserves are 109.45 million pounds from 10.1 million MT of ore with an average grade of 0.49 percent copper. The mill will produce a copper-gold-silver concentrate and cement copper stream, combining for 89.1 million pounds of payable copper over the nine-year life of mine.

    Mason project

    Ownership: Hudbay Minerals
    State: Nevada
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry, vein/narrow vein
    Commodities: Copper, molybdenum, gold, silver

    Planned for a mine life of 27 years, Mason is a significant greenfield copper deposit and one of the largest undeveloped porphyry copper deposits in North America, according to MDO. Hudbay considers Mason a ‘long-term future development asset’ and is working on enhancing project economics through metallurgical studies.

    Based on its 2021 PEA, Hudbay expects the mine to produce an average of 112,000 MT of copper concentrate per year and deliver more than 10 million MT over its lifetime.

    NorthMet project

    Ownership:
    50% – Teck (TSX:TECK.A,TECK.B,NYSE:TECK)
    50% – Glencore (LSE:GLEN,OTC Pink:GLCNF)
    State: Minnesota
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Magmatic
    Commodities: Copper, nickel, palladium, gold, platinum, cobalt, silver

    The Teck and Glencore NewRange joint venture consists of two deposits: NorthMet and Mesaba. Permitting for NewRange is stalled in part due to concerns with the mine’s tailings plan. In 2025, the companies plan to advance engineering studies at NorthMet and secure updated development permits.

    The Trump administration’s executive order to speed approvals of critical minerals projects could potentially help the project clear regulatory hurdles. If it is fully permitted, NorthMet is expected to deliver an average of 60 million pounds of copper concentrate per year over a 20 year mine life.

    Palmer project

    Ownership: American Pacific Mining (CSE:USGD,OTCQX:USGDF)
    State: Alaska
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: VMS
    Commodities: Copper, zinc, silver, gold, barite, lead

    American Pacific Mining is assessing its Palmer project through its five-year plan that ends in 2028. In 2024, work included environmental and permitting activities, a variety of studies in preparation for future feasibility plans and drilling to expand the mineral resource.

    As of 2018, the site hosts an indicated copper resource of 154 million pounds from 4.68 million MT of ore at an average copper grade of 1.49 percent, and an inferred copper resource of 124 million pounds from 9.6 million MT of ore at an average grade of 0.59 percent.

    Pebble project

    Ownership: Northern Dynasty Minerals (TSX:NDM,NYSE:NAK)
    State: Alaska
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Porphyry
    Commodities: Copper, molybdenum, gold, silver, rhenium

    According to MDO, Pebble is the world’s largest known undeveloped resource of copper as well as gold. The project has been stalled since November 2020, when the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) rejected its permit applications due to environmental concerns. Since then, Northern Dynasty has been suing to overturn the rejection.

    In February 2025, court proceedings were suspended for 90 days at the request of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the USACE. This followed the confirmation of a new EPA administrator and Trump’s executive order supporting critical mineral projects. However, it still remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will support Pebble this time around, as the previous rejection was made during his first term.

    Pebble is planned to produce an estimated average of 320 million pounds of copper concentrate annually, from a measured and indicated resource base of 52.99 billion pounds of copper.

    Pumpkin Hollow

    Ownership: Kinterra Capital
    State: Nevada
    Mine type: Open pit
    Deposit type: Skarn, breccia pipe/stockwork, iron oxide copper-gold (IOCG)
    Commodities: Copper, gold, silver

    The Pumpkin Hollow project hosts a fully permitted open pit project and a fully permitted and constructed underground mine. Production and development were suspended at the operations after its previous owner Nevada Copper filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2024. That October, Pumpkin Hollow was acquired for US$128 million by an affiliate company of private equity firm Kinterra Capital, which plans to advance the assets.

    Proven and probable copper reserves at Pumpkin Hollow’s open pit project total 3.59 billion pounds from 385.7 million MT of ore with an average grade of 0.47 percent copper. The open pit is expected to produce an annual average of 163 million pounds of payable copper. Additionally, the underground mine is projected to produce 50 million pounds of payable copper annually once it is restarted.

    Resolution project

    Ownership:
    55% – Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO,NYSE:RIO,LSE:RIO)
    45% – BHP Group (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP)
    State: Arizona
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Porphyry
    Commodities: Copper, molybdenum, silver

    The Resolution project has the potential to supply 25 percent of the total US copper demand, with planned production of 40 billion pounds of copper over its 40 year mine life.

    Permitting for the project has been underway for over a decade, and the US Forest Service published and then rescinded the project’s final environmental impact statement in early 2021. The local Apache Tribe has taken legal action to stop the proposed mine as the deposit sits under a site of religious importance.

    According to BHP’s 2024 annual report, the Resolution joint venture and the US Forest Service are focused on further consultation with Native American Tribes to mitigate harm to the region. The agency has said there is currently no timeline for republication of the final environmental impact statement. After Trump took office in January, Rio Tinto’s CEO said he is optimistic the president will grant Resolution’s final permits.

    Tamarack North project

    Ownership:
    51% – Talon Metals (TSX:TLO,OTC Pink:TLOFF)
    49% – Rio Tinto
    State: Minnesota
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Porphyry
    Commodities: Nickel, copper, cobalt, platinum, palladium, gold

    Tamarack is one of only three high-grade nickel sulfide deposits discovered in this century. Due to its significance, the US Department of Energy has selected it to receive a US$114.8 million grant for the construction of a battery mineral processing facility.

    Despite its nickel primary status, the project will produce 24,000 MT of copper concentrate annually as a by-product material from an indicated resource of 8.56 million MT of ore grading 0.92 percent copper. Talon currently plans to begin construction in 2026, with production beginning in late 2027.

    Twin Metals Minnesota project

    Ownership: Antofagasta (LSE:ANTO,OTC Pink:ANFGF)
    State: Minnesota
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Magmatic
    Commodities: Copper, nickel, platinum, palladium, gold, silver, cobalt, lead

    Twin Metals Minnesota’s development is currently on hold after hitting multiple roadblocks, including the rejection of its mine plan and cancelling of two federal mining leases due to concerns tailings from the mine will impact the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

    In 2022, Antofagasta’s subsidiary Twin Metals engaged in litigation against the US government over the actions, and in September 2023, the district court dismissed the company’s claims, siding with the government. Twin Metals filed an appeal in November of that year.

    If approved, the mine is expected to produce 158,000 MT of copper annually. The company said it is studying the possible impact of Trump’s executive order.

    Van Dyke project

    Ownership: Copper Fox Metals (TSXV:CUU,OTCQX:CPFXF)
    State: Arizona
    Mine type: In-situ
    Deposit type: Porphyry, breccia pipe/stockwork, vein/narrow vein
    Commodities: Copper

    The Van Dyke project covers a project area of 531.5 hectares and hosts historical mine workings, which produced 11.5 million pounds of copper between 1929 and 1945 and an additional 5 million pounds between 1988 and 1989.

    In a 2020 PEA, Copper Fox reported an after-tax net present value of US$644.7 million, an internal rate of return of 43.4 percent and a payback period of 2.1 years. The company forecasts a mine life of 17 years and annual average copper production of 85 million pounds. Copper Fox is currently advancing the project towards a pre-feasibility study.

    White Pine North project

    Ownership:
    66% – Kinterra Capital
    34% – Highland Copper
    State: Michigan
    Mine type: Underground
    Deposit type: Sediment-hosted
    Commodities: Copper, silver

    Kinterra Capital is the operator of White Pine North as of 2023, when Highland sold it 66 percent of the project. In June 2024, the company initiated an environmental baseline study for White Pine North that would be key to supporting its ongoing permitting operations. Using room-and-pillar mining, the partners plan to use begin production at the first panel in 2027 and expect a four-year ramp-up to full plant throughput.

    The project hosts a measured and indicated copper resource of 3.5 billion pounds from 133.4 MT of ore with an average grade of 1.05 percent copper and an additional inferred copper resource of 2.18 billion pounds from 97.2 MT of ore with an average grade of 1.03 percent. Average annual payable copper metal production is projected at 94 million pounds.

    Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, have an investment in Northern Dynasty.

    This post appeared first on investingnews.com

    Keep Reading
    Investing

    Could the Silver Price Really Hit $100 per Ounce?

    Investing 18 Mins Read

    Will First Majestic Silver CEO’s silver price prediction of more than US$100 per ounce come true?

    The silver spot price made waves in 2020 when it rose above US$20 per ounce for the first time in four years, and the precious metal has repeatedly tested US$30 per ounce since.

    Since September of 2024, silver has held above US$30, and on October 22 the silver price reached a 12-year high when it came close to breaking through the US$35 mark. While it fell back by November, the US$30 level has served as a floor.

    Well-known figure Keith Neumeyer, CEO of First Majestic Silver (TSX:FR,NYSE:AG), has frequently said he believes the white metal could climb even further, to hit the US$100 mark or even reach as high as US$130 per ounce.

    Neumeyer has voiced this opinion often in recent years. He put up a US$130 price target in a November 2017 interview with Palisade Radio, and he also discussed it in an August 2022 interview with Wall Street Silver. He has reiterated his triple-digit silver price forecast in multiple interviews with Kitco over the years, as recently as March 2023.

    In 2024, Neumeyer has made his US$100 call in a conversation with ITM Trading’s Daniela Cambone at the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention; and in April he acknowledged his reputation as the ‘triple-digit silver guy’ on the Todd Ault Podcast.

    He believes silver could hit US$100 due to a variety of factors, including its consistent deficit, its industrial demand and how undervalued it is compared to gold.

    At times he’s been even bolder, suggesting in 2016 that silver could reach US$1,000 if gold were to hit US$10,000. More recently, his expected timeline for US$100 silver has been pushed back, but he remains very bullish on the metal in the long term.

    In order to better understand where Neumeyer’s opinion comes from and whether a triple-digit silver price is really in the cards, it’s important to take a look at the factors that affect the metal’s movements, as well as where prices have been in the past and where other industry insiders think silver could be headed. First, let’s dive a little deeper into Neumeyer’s US$100 prediction.

    In this article

      Why is Neumeyer calling for a US$100 silver price?

      There’s a significant distance for silver to go before it reaches the success Neumeyer has boldly predicted. In fact, in order for the precious metal to jump to the US$100 mark, its price would have to increase from its current value by around 200 percent.

      Neumeyer has previously stated that he expects a triple-digit silver price in part because he believed the market cycle could be compared to the year 2000, when investors were sailing high on the dot-com bubble and the mining sector was down. He thinks it’s only a matter of time before the market corrects, like it did in 2001 and 2002, and commodities see a big rebound in pricing. It was during 2000 that Neumeyer himself invested heavily in mining stocks and came out on top.

      “I’ve been calling for triple-digit silver for a few years now, and I’m more enthused now,” Neumeyer said at an event in January 2020, noting that there are multiple factors behind his reasoning. “But I’m cautiously enthused because, you know, I thought it would have happened sooner than it currently is happening.”

      In his August 2022 with Wall Street Silver, he reiterated his support for triple-digit silver and said he’s fortunately not alone in this optimistic view — in fact, he’s been surpassed in that optimism. ‘I actually saw someone the other day call for US$500 silver,’ he said. ‘I’m not quite sure I’m at the level. Give me US$50 first and we’ll see what happens after that.’

      Another factor driving Neumeyer’s position is his belief that the silver market is in a deficit. In a May 2021 interview, when presented with supply-side data from the Silver Institute indicating the biggest surplus in silver market history, Neumeyer was blunt in his skepticism. “I think these numbers are made up,” he said. “I wouldn’t trust them at all.”

      He pointed out that subtracting net investments in silver exchange-traded products leaves the market in a deficit, and also questioned the methodology behind the institute’s recycling data given that most recycled silver metal comes from privately owned smelters and refineries that typically don’t make those figures public.

      ‘I’m guessing the mining sector produced something in the order of 800, maybe 825 million ounces in 2022,’ Neumeyer said when giving a Q4 2022 overview for his company. ‘Consumption numbers look like they’re somewhere between 1.2 and 1.4 billion ounces. That’s due to all the great technologies, all the newfangled gadgets that we’re consuming. Electric vehicles, solar panels, windmills, you name it. All these technologies require silver … that’s a pretty big (supply) deficit.’

      In a December 2023 interview with Kitco, Neumeyer stressed that silver is more than just a poor man’s gold and he spoke to silver’s important role in electric vehicles and solar cells.

      In line with its view on silver, First Majestic is a member of a consortium of silver producers that in January 2024 sent a letter to the Canadian government urging that silver be recognized as a critical mineral. Silver’s inclusion on the list would allow silver producers to accelerate the development of strategic projects with financial and administrative assistance from the Canadian government. Canada’s critical minerals list is expected to get an update in the summer of 2024.

      In his 2024 PDAC interview, Neumeyer once again highlighted this sizable imbalance in the silver’s supply-demand picture. “We’re six years into this deficit. The deficit in 2024 looks like it’s gonna be bigger than 2023, and why is that? Because miners aren’t producing enough silver for the needs of the human race,” he said.

      More controversially, Neumeyer is of the opinion that the white metal will eventually become uncoupled from its sister metal gold, and should be seen as a strategic metal due to its necessity in many everyday appliances, from computers to electronics, as well as the technologies mentioned above. He has also stated that silver production has gone down in recent years, meaning that contrary to popular belief, he believes the metal is actually a rare commodity.

      Neumeyer’s March 2023 triple-digit silver call is a long-term call, and he explained that while he believes gold will break US$3,000 this year, he thinks silver will only reach US$30 in 2023. However, once the gold/silver ratio is that unbalanced, he believes that silver will begin to take off, and it will just need a catalyst.

      ‘It could be Elon Musk taking a position in the silver space,’ Neumeyer said. ‘There’s going to be a catalyst at some time, and headlines in the Wall Street Journal might talk about the silver supply deficit … I don’t know what the catalyst will be, but investors and institutions will wake up to the fundamentals of the metal, and that’s when it will start to move.’

      In an August 2023 interview with SilverNews, Neumeyer discussed his belief that banks are holding the silver market down. He pointed to the paper market for the metal, which he said the banks have capped at US$30 even in times of high buying.

      ‘If you want to go and buy 100 billion ounces of silver (in the paper market), you might not even move the price because some bank just writes you a contract that says (you own that),’ he explained, saying banks are willing to get short, because once the buying stops, they push the price down to get the investors out of the market and buy the silver back. ‘… If the miners started pulling their metal out of the current system, then all of a sudden the banks wouldn’t know if they’re going to get the metal or not, so they wouldn’t be taking the same risks they’re taking today in the paper markets.’

      The month after the interview, his company First Majestic launched its own 100 percent owned and operated minting facility, named First Mint.

      In 2024, gold experienced a resurgence in investor attention as the potential for Fed rate cuts came into view. In his interview with Cambone at PDAC 2024, Neumeyer countered that perception, stating, “There’s a rush into gold because of the de-dollarization of the world. It has nothing to do with the interest rates.”

      What factors affect the silver price?

      In order to glean a better understanding of the precious metal’s chances of trading around the US$100 range, it’s important to examine the elements that could push it to that level or pull it further away.

      The strength of the US dollar and US Federal Reserve interest rate changes are factors that will continue to affect the precious metal, as are geopolitical issues and supply and demand dynamics. Although Neumeyer believes that the ties that bind silver to gold need to be broken, the reality is that most of the same factors that shape the price of gold also move silver.

      For that reason, it’s helpful to look at gold price drivers when trying to understand silver’s price action. Silver is, of course, the more volatile of the two precious metals, but nevertheless it often trades in relative tandem with gold.

      Looking first at the Fed and interest rates, it’s useful to understand that higher rates are generally negative for gold and silver, while lower rates tend to be positive. That’s because when rates are higher interest shifts to products that can accrue interest.

      When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Fed cut rates down to zero from 1 to 1.25 percent. However, rising inflation led the Fed and other central banks to hike rates, which negatively impacted gold and silver. In February 2023, the Fed raised rates by just 25 basis points, the smallest hike since March 2022, as Chair Jerome Powell said the process of disinflation has begun. The Fed continued these small rate hikes over the next year with the last in July 2023.

      In this leg of the upward cycle of the silver market, Fed interest rate moves have played an oversized role in pumping up silver prices. In early July, as analysts factored in the rising potential for interest rate cuts in the remainder of 2024, silver prices were once again testing May’s nearly 12-year high, and they topped US$31 in September in the days leading up to the anticipated first rate cut.

      While central bank actions are important for gold, and by extension silver, another key price driver lately has been geopolitical uncertainty. The past few years have been filled with major geopolitical events such as tensions between the US and other countries such as North Korea, China and Iran. The huge economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the banking crisis in early 2023, Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine, and rising tensions in the Middle East brought about by the Israel-Hamas war have been sources of concern for investors.

      More recently, US President Donald Trump’s penchant for tariffs has rattled stock markets and ratcheted up the level of economic uncertainty pervading the market landscape in 2025. This has proved price positive for gold, bringing silver along for the ride.

      However, silver’s industrial side can not be ignored. In the current environment, the industrial case of silver is weakening in the short term; but longer term still holds some prospects for larger gains.

      Higher industrial demand from emerging sectors due to factors like the transition to renewable energy and the emergence of AI technology will be highly supportive for the metal over the next few years. Solar panels are an especially exciting sector as manufacturers have found increasing the silver content increases energy efficiency.

      Could silver hit US$100 per ounce?

      While we can’t know if we’ll reach a $100 per ounce silver price in the near future, there is support for Neumeyer’s belief that the metal is undervalued and that “ideal conditions are present for silver prices to rise.”

      Many are on board with Neumeyer in the idea that silver’s prospects are bright, including Peter Krauth of Silver Stock Investor, who believes that ‘we are very likely going to experience the greatest silver bull market of our generation.’

      So, if the silver price does rise further, how high will it go?

      Let’s look at silver’s recent history. The highest price for silver was just under US$50 in the 1970s, and it came close to that level again in 2011. The commodity’s price uptick came on the back of very strong silver investment demand. While it has yet to reach these levels again, the silver price has increased significantly in recent years.

      After spending the latter half of the 2010s in the teens, the 2020s have seen silver largely hold above US$20. In August 2020, the price of silver reached nearly US$28.50 before pulling back again, and moved back up near those heights in February 2021. The price of silver saw a 2022 high point of US$26.46 in February, and passed US$26 again in both May and November 2023.

      Silver rallied in the later part of the first quarter of 2024, and by April 12 was once again flirting with the US$30 mark as it reached an 11 year high of US$29.26. Despite a brief pull back to the US$26 level, the month of May saw the silver price take another run at US$30, this time successfully pushing into US$32 territory on May 19. Silver prices experienced volatility for much of the third quarter, ranging from a high of US$31.39 on July 11 to a low of US$26.64 on August 7.

      The price of silver had a nice run in late October of 2024 in the lead up to the election, rising up to US$34.80 on October 22. However, a stronger dollar and signs that the Federal reserve may not be so quick to cut interest rates as deeply as previously expected were seen as price negative for silver. The precious metal’s price was in a downward slide for much of November.

      Fed Chair Jerome Powell has ‘indicated that the central bank is in no rush to lower rates, citing a strong economy, a solid labor market, and persistent inflation,’ according to Trading Economics. ‘Silver also faced additional pressure from Donald Trump’s election victory, as markets anticipated inflationary policies and a more aggressive stance toward China, which could dampen demand for the metal.’

      For much of the first quarter of 2025, silver has followed gold higher on factors including persistent inflationary pressures brought on by Trump’s aggressive tariff announcements and the ongoing geopolitical risks in the Middle East.

      As of March 31, 2025, the price of silver was above the US$34 mark, up almost 16 percent since the beginning of the year.

      What do other experts think about US$100 silver?

      Many experts in the space expect silver to perform strongly in the years to come, but don’t necessarily see it reaching US$100 or more, especially given the current macroeconomic conditions.

      ‘As I was doing my research, and this goes back over several years already, I would get to that US$300 forecast for an ultimate high in the silver price in different ways,’ he said, and broke down what a low gold/silver ratio — like we’ve seen the previous times that silver has peaked — could mean for the metal’s price in the future.

      Breaking through the historic US$50 ceiling will likely happen in quick, sharp daily spikes in the modern AI trading environment, he said, and it could potentially be ‘the first step’ toward even higher silver prices, including $100 silver. ‘The key is that people really fully understand and appreciate the actual (supply) deficit of silver,’ Lin noted.

      Analyst firm InvestingHaven is very bullish on the silver market and is expecting prices to test all-time highs in 2025, moving as high as US$49 per ounce, before blasting through new records in the next few years. InvestingHaven even sees the precious metal reaching as high as US$77 in 2027 and US$82 by 2030.

      FAQs for silver

      Can silver hit $1,000 per ounce?

      In 2016, Neumeyer predicted that silver could hit $1,000 per ounce if gold ever climbed to US$10,000 per ounce. This is related to the gold to silver production ratio discussed above, which at the time of the prediction was around 1 ounce of gold to 9 ounces of silver and last year was about 1:8.3.

      If silver was priced according to production ratio today, when gold is at US$2,000 silver would be around US$240, or US$222 at 1:9. However, the gold to silver pricing ratio has actually sat around 1:80 to 1:90 recently, and when gold moved above US$2,400 in May 2024, silver was around US$32. Additionally, even if pricing did change drastically to reflect production rates, gold would need to climb by more than 300 percent from its current price to hit the US$10,000 Neumeyer mentioned back in 2016.

      As things are now, it seems unlikely silver will reach those highs.

      Why is silver so cheap?

      The primary reason that silver is sold at a significant discount to gold is supply and demand, with more silver being mined annually. While silver does have both investment and industrial demand, the global focus on gold as an investment vehicle, including countries stockpiling gold, can overshadow silver. Additionally, jewelry alone is a massive force for gold demand.

      There is an abundance of silver — according to the US Geological Survey, to date 1,740,000 metric tons (MT) of silver have been discovered, while only 244,000 MT of gold have been found, a ratio of about 1 ounce of gold to 7.1 ounces of silver. In terms of output, 25,000 MT of silver were mined in 2024 compared to 3,300 MT for gold. Looking at these numbers, that puts gold and silver production at about a 1:7.5 ratio last year, while the price ratio on March 31, 2025, was around 1:92 — a huge disparity.

      Is silver really undervalued?

      Many experts believe that silver is undervalued compared to fellow currency metal gold. As discussed, their production and price ratios are currently incredibly disparate.

      While investment demand is higher for gold, silver has seen increasing time in the limelight in recent years, including a 2021 silver squeeze that saw new entrants to the market join in.

      Another factor that lends more intrinsic value to silver is that it’s an industrial metal as well as a precious metal. It has applications in technology and batteries — both growing sectors that will drive demand higher.

      Silver’s two sides has been on display in recent years: Silver demand hit record highs in 2022, according to the Silver Institute, with physical silver investment rising by 22 percent and industrial by 5 percent over 2021. For 2023, industrial demand was up 11 percent over the previous year, compared to 28 percent decline in physical silver investment.

      Is silver better than gold?

      There are merits for both metals, especially as part of a well-balanced portfolio. As many analysts point out, silver has been known to outperform its sister metal gold during times of economic prosperity and expansion.

      On the other hand, during economic uncertainty silver values are impacted by declines in fabrication demand.

      Silver’s duality as a precious and industrial metal also provides price support. As a report from the CPM Group notes, “it can be seen that silver in fact almost always (but not always) out-performs gold during a gold bull market.”

      At what price did Warren Buffet buy silver?

      Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:BRK.A,NYSE:BRK.B) bought up 37 percent of global silver supply between 1997 and 2006. Silver ranged from US$4 to US$10 during that period.

      In fact, between July 1997 and January 1998 alone, the company bought about 129 million ounces of the metal, much of which was for under US$5. Adjusted for inflation, the company’s purchases in that window cost about US$8.50 to US$11.50.

      How to invest in silver?

      There are a variety of ways to get into the silver market. For example, investors may choose to put their money into silver-focused stocks by buying shares of companies focused on silver mining and exploration. As a by-product metal, investors can also gain exposure to silver through some gold companies.

      There are also silver exchange-traded funds that give broad exposure to silver companies and the metal itself, while more experienced traders may be interested in silver futures. And of course, for those who prefer a more tangible investment, purchasing physical bullion in silver bar and silver coin form is also an option.

      Securities Disclosure: I, Melissa Pistilli, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

      This post appeared first on investingnews.com

      Keep Reading
      Investing

      Alvo Minerals to Acquire Pan American’s Lavra Velha Gold-Copper Project

      Investing 3 Mins Read

      Brazil-focused explorer Alvo Minerals (ASX:ALV,OTC Pink:ALVMF) has signed a non-binding letter of intent with Pan American Silver (TSX:PAAS,NYSE:PAAS) to acquire the Lavra Velha gold-copper project.

      According to Alvo, the project and surrounding exploration ground were considered by Pan American to be ‘non-core’ after the company completed its acquisition of Yamana Gold in 2022.

      Mineralization was discovered at Lavra Velha in 2010, and the site was explored from 2010 to 2013, and then from 2018 to 2022. The project covers 55,000 hectares in Brazil’s Bahia state.

      Lavra Velha has a NI 43-101 resource estimate of 9.2 million tonnes at 1.76 grams per tonne (g/t) gold for 520,000 ounces. That includes an indicated resource of 4.5 million tonnes at 1.96 g/t gold for 282,000 ounces, as well as an inferred resource of 4.7 million tonnes at 1.56 g/t gold for 238,000 ounces.

      “We are very excited about the proposed acquisition of the Lavra Velha Gold-Copper Project,’ Alvo Managing Director Rob Smakman said in a Monday (March 31) announcement, adding that the property is complementary to the company’s Palma copper-zinc project. He also commented positively on current gold and copper market dynamics.

      The company plans to update Lavra Velha’s NI 43-101 resource to meet JORC standards. Among other adjustments, it will use the current gold price instead of the previous US$1,650 per ounce price.

      As part of the acquisition plan, Alvo will be opening an entitlement offer to raise up to AU$3.5 million among its shareholders, with each share priced at AU$0.06. Once raised, the amount is proposed to cover the US$1 million upfront cash payment portion of the transaction, along with initial exploration of Lavra Velha.

      The entitlement offer is set to open to eligible Alvo shareholders on Friday (April 4).

      Completion of the transaction with Pan American is subject to Alvo’s satisfaction of due diligence and the execution of an asset purchase agreement. The due diligence completion has a 45 day exclusivity period.

      Shares of Alvo rose as high as AU$0.066 following the announcement, up 10 percent from the firm’s previous AU$0.06 close. Pan American finished at US$25.55, a 1.47 percent dip from its US$25.94 close last week.

      According to Global Business Reports’ Brazil Mining 2024 report, mining in Brazil continues to be fueled by iron ore, but is slowly seeing diversification through a growing number of gold, rare earths and lithium projects.

      Securities Disclosure: I, Gabrielle de la Cruz, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

      This post appeared first on investingnews.com

      Keep Reading
      Investing

      Quimbaya Gold Announces Annual General Meeting Results and Board Changes

      Investing 4 Mins Read

      Quimbaya Gold Inc. (CSE: QIM) (OTCQB: QIMGF) (FSE: K05) (‘Quimbaya Gold’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce that shareholders voted to approve all items of business put forth to shareholders at the Company’s Annual General and Special Meeting (‘AGSM’) held on March 28, 2025, including the election of directors, fixing the number of directors, appointment of the Company’s auditor, approval of the equity incentive plan, and the continuation of the Company under the British Columbia Business Corporations Act.

      The board of directors and the Company would like to thank Mr. Bayona, who did not run for re-election, for his service to the Company and would like to wish him well in his future endeavors.

      Additionally, at the AGSM, Sebastian Wahl was elected as new independent director of the Company. Sebastian Wahl brings over 15 years of experience in the mining industry, specializing in precious metals trading and corporate development. As a co-founder and former Vice President of Corporate Development at Silver X Mining Corp., he played a pivotal role in consolidating assets and advancing projects in South America. Mr. Wahl holds a B.Sc. in Business Administration from the Graduate School of Business Administration in Zurich and a Financial Modelling certification from the Corporate Finance Institute. Fluent in Spanish, he possesses extensive expertise in South American mining operations and capital markets.

      Mr. Alexandre P. Boivin, President & CEO stated, ‘We are excited to bring Sebastian on as an independent board member. His strong experience in South America and European connections will complement the Company as we strive to become an established player in the Colombian mining exploration space.’

      About Quimbaya

      Quimbaya aims to discover gold resources through exploration and acquisition of mining properties in the prolific mining districts of Colombia. Managed by an experienced team in the mining sector, Quimbaya is focused on three projects in the regions of Segovia (Tahami Project), Puerto Berrio (Berrio Project), and Abejorral (Maitamac Project), all located in Antioquia Province, Colombia.

      Contact Information

      Alexandre P. Boivin, President and CEO apboivin@quimbayagold.com
      Jason Frame, Manager of Communications jason.frame@quimbayagold.com

      Quimbaya Gold Inc.
      Follow on X @quimbayagoldinc
      Follow on LinkedIn @quimbayagold
      Follow on Instagram @quimbayagoldinc
      Follow on Facebook @quimbayagoldinc

      Cautionary Statements

      Certain statements contained in this press release constitute ‘forward-looking information’ as that term is defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ‘intends’, ‘expects’ or ‘anticipates’, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results ‘may’, ‘could’, ‘should’, ‘would’ or ‘occur’. Forward-looking information by its nature is based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Quimbaya to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Although Quimbaya’s management believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Furthermore, should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of Quimbaya as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Except as required by law, Quimbaya does not expect to update forward-looking statements and information continually as conditions change.

      Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

      To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/246745

      News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia

      This post appeared first on investingnews.com

      Keep Reading
      Investing

      Top 5 Canadian Mining Stocks This Week: Euro Sun Gains 54 Percent as Copper Hits New High

      Investing 10 Mins Read

      The US Bureau of Economic Analysis released February personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index data on Friday (March 28). The figures show inflation increased 2.5 percent on an annualized basis in February, aligning with analyst expectations and reflecting no change from the 2.5 percent recorded in January. On a monthly basis, inflation rose by 0.3 percent, also matching January’s increase.

      However, core PCE, which excludes the volatile food and energy prices, increased 2.8 percent year-over-year and 0.4 percent month-over-month. Both came in above analyst expectations of 2.7 and 0.3 percent, respectively.

      The PCE is the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure for tracking inflation and will be significant when it meets next in May. Combined with recent consumer price index figures, the data indicates progress has stalled in bringing inflation to the Federal Reserve’s 2 percent target rate.

      To the north, Statistics Canada released January gross domestic product (GDP) numbers on Friday. The report shows that GDP grew by 0.4 percent in January, up from a 0.3 percent increase in December.

      The largest gain was observed in goods-producing industries, which rose 1.1 percent, marking the highest increase since October 2021. As for Canada’s resources, the mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction sector increased by 1.8 percent during the first month of the year. This increase was driven by a 2.6 percent rise in the oil and gas extraction subsector. However, metal ore mining declined by 1.2 percent.

      The agency also provided a brief estimate of February’s GDP numbers, as well as a look at Canada and the US’s metal manufacturing trade. Tariff threats from the United States appear to have kept numbers flat, as preliminary real GDP data is “essentially unchanged in February.” Official data for February will be released on April 30.

      Markets and commodities react

      In Canada, markets were in the red this week. The S&P/TSX Composite Index (INDEXTSI:OSPTX) fell 1.2 percent during the week to close at 24,759.15 on Friday, the S&P/TSX Venture Composite Index (INDEXTSI:JX) decreased 1.04 percent to 633.63 and the CSE Composite Index (CSE:CSECOMP) dropped 2.43 percent to 121.13.

      US equity markets fell even further this week. The S&P 500 (INDEXSP:INX) lost 2.4 percent to close at 5,5680.95, the Nasdaq 100 (INDEXNASDAQ:NDX) dropped 3.79 percent to 19,281.40 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:.DJI) shed 1.41 percent to 41,583.91.

      The gold price climbed to fresh all time highs this week gaining 2.02 percent to US$3,084.48 per ounce at 5:00 p.m. EDT Friday. The silver price rose higher with a 3.29 percent increase during the period to US$34.10.

      In base metals, the copper price set an all time high of US$5.32 per pound on Wednesday before finishing the week flat to close out Friday at US$5.13 per pound on the COMEX. Meanwhile, the S&P GSCI (INDEXSP:SPGSCI) was up 0.41 percent to close at 560.50.

      Top Canadian mining stocks this week

      So how did mining stocks perform against this backdrop? We break down this week’s five best-performing Canadian mining stocks below.

      Stock data for this article was retrieved at 2:00 p.m. EDT on Friday using TradingView’s stock screener. Only companies trading on the TSX, TSXV and CSE with market capitalizations greater than C$10 million are included. Companies within the non-energy minerals and energy minerals sectors were considered.

      1. Euro Sun Mining (TSX:ESM)

      Company Profile

      Weekly gain: 53.85 percent
      Market cap: C$30.94 million
      Share price: C$0.10

      Euro Sun Mining is a copper and gold development company focused on advancing its Rovina Valley project in Romania.

      The project’s mining license received full approval for 20 years in 2018, with the option to renew it in five-year increments.

      An updated feasibility study from March 2022 demonstrated the project’s economics, showing a post-tax net present value of US$512 million and an internal rate of return of 20.5 percent, assuming a base case gold price of US$1,675 per ounce and a copper price of US$3.75 per pound.

      Proven and probable mineral reserve estimates for the site show contained quantities of 197,522 metric tons of copper with an average grade of 0.16 percent, along with 1.84 million ounces of gold with an average grade of 0.47 grams per metric ton (g/t) from 123.3 million metric tons of ore.

      Although Euro Sun did not release news this week, shares increased alongside a rising copper price.

      2. Rackla Metals (TSXV:RAK)

      Company Profile

      Weekly gain: 50 percent
      Market cap: C$22.58 million
      Share price: C$0.225

      Rackla Metals is a gold exploration company with a significant land package covering 59,000 hectares in the Eastern Yukon and Western Northwest Territories, Canada. The firm is specifically targeting properties within the Tombstone Gold Belt, which hosts a gold system that tends to produce deposits in clusters.

      Among its key projects is the Astro plutonic complex in the Northwest Territories, which is in close proximity to significant discoveries at Snowline Gold’s (TSXV:SGD,OTCQB:SNWGF) Rogue plutonic complex and Fireweed Metals’ (TSXV:FWZ,OTCQX:FWEDF) Macmillan Pass project.

      Besides Astro, Rackla has been exploring its Grad property, which it initially staked in August 2024. Work at the 4,000 hectare site has focused on anomalies identified in a government regional geochemical survey. In October 2024, the company reported that grab samples from the BiTe zone yielded grades of up to 92 g/t gold in its season-end exploration update.

      The company’s latest release came on Tuesday (March 24), when it announced a non-brokered private placement to raise total gross proceeds of C$2.45 million. The company intends to use proceeds to advance work at its Tombstone gold belt properties.

      3. Tidewater Renewables (TSX:LCFS)

      Company Profile

      Weekly gain: 49.55 percent
      Market cap: C$112.45 million
      Share price: C$3.35

      Tidewater Resources is focused on the production of low-carbon fuels from facilities in British Columbia, Canada.

      Its sole operation is a renewable diesel and hydrogen complex located near Prince George. The project has a nameplate capacity of 3,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel and 23.7 metric tons per day of hydrogen. The plant began production during Q4 2023 using feedstock that included soybean and canola oil.

      The company is expanding the site to produce sustainable aviation fuel, which it plans to start producing in 2028.

      On March 6, Tidewater announced that it had advised the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to initiate an anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duty investigation into imports of renewable diesel from the US. The release indicated that the CBSA confirmed that Tidewater had provided sufficient evidence to support the allegations.

      Tidewater expects that additional duties of between C$0.50 and C$0.80 will be applied to renewable diesel imports originating from the US, which would provide increased market stability for Tidewater products.

      The company released its financial results for 2024 on Thursday, March 27. In the announcement, the company stated that its renewable diesel and hydrogen complex achieved an average daily throughput of 2,677 barrels per day in the fourth quarter, marking a significant increase from the 1,700 barrels per day throughput in Q4 2023.

      4. Titan Mining (TSX:TI)

      Company Profile

      Weekly gain: 48.28 percent
      Market cap: C$57.27 million
      Share price: C$0.43

      Titan Mining is a critical mineral mining and development company focused on advancing and exploring its zinc and graphite assets in New York, US.

      Its Empire State Mines (ESM) zinc operations include ESM 4, which restarted production in January 2018, along with six past-producing mines capable of supplying additional feedstock for its onsite mill.

      On January 7, Titan released an updated life of mine plan for its ESM properties, which projected a 35 percent increase in production compared to its previous plan released in 2021. The new plan extends the mine’s operational life to nine years, up from seven, and anticipates the production of 636 million pounds of zinc, increased from 470 million pounds in the prior plan.

      In addition to zinc, the company also owns the Kilbourne graphite deposit located 4,000 feet from the existing mill at its Empire Mines operation.

      A December 2024 maiden mineral resource estimate demonstrated an open pit inferred resource of 653,000 short tons of contained graphite from 22.42 million short tons of ore with an average grade of 2.91 percent copper.

      Titan’s most recent news came on March 20, when it released its full-year 2024 results. In the announcement, the company stated it had achieved the upper end of production guidance with 59.5 million pounds of payable zinc. It also reported C1 cash costs of US$0.91 per payable pound sold, which was below the guidance range of US$0.98 to US$1.02.

      5. Supernova Metals (CSE:SUPR)

      Company Profile

      Weekly gain: 39.71 percent
      Market cap: C$14.1 million
      Share price: C$0.475

      Supernova Metals is an exploration company with rare earth mineral claims in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, as well as petroleum interests in Namibia.

      Its TT rare earth claims comprise two licenses spanning 825 hectares in central Labrador and are adjacent to Canada Rare Earth’s (TSXV:LL,OTC Pink:RAREF) Two Tom project. The company shared plans to begin exploration in February.

      In addition to its TT Claims, the company announced on January 31 that it had successfully completed its acquisition of NamLith Resources. The purchase provides Supernova with an 8.75 percent indirect ownership interest in Block 2712A and petroleum exploration license 107 in Namibia’s offshore Orange Basin.

      In a follow-up on February 6, Supernova reported that a NI51-101 technical report is being prepared for the block. The company has since added two senior strategic advisors with experience in the energy industry.

      The company has not released any project updates in the past week.

      FAQs for Canadian mining stocks

      What is the difference between the TSX and TSXV?

      The TSX, or Toronto Stock Exchange, is used by senior companies with larger market caps, and the TSXV, or TSX Venture Exchange, is used by smaller-cap companies. Companies listed on the TSXV can graduate to the senior exchange.

      How many companies are listed on the TSXV?

      As of June 2024, there were 1,630 companies listed on the TSXV, 925 of which were mining companies. Comparatively, the TSX was home to 1,806 companies, with 188 of those being mining companies.

      Together the TSX and TSXV host around 40 percent of the world’s public mining companies.

      How much does it cost to list on the TSXV?

      There are a variety of different fees that companies must pay to list on the TSXV, and according to the exchange, they can vary based on the transaction’s nature and complexity. The listing fee alone will most likely cost between C$10,000 to C$70,000. Accounting and auditing fees could rack up between C$25,000 and C$100,000, while legal fees are expected to be over C$75,000 and an underwriters’ commission may hit up to 12 percent.

      The exchange lists a handful of other fees and expenses companies can expect, including but not limited to security commission and transfer agency fees, investor relations costs and director and officer liability insurance.

      These are all just for the initial listing, of course. There are ongoing expenses once companies are trading, such as sustaining fees and additional listing fees, plus the costs associated with filing regular reports.

      How do you trade on the TSXV?

      Investors can trade on the TSXV the way they would trade stocks on any exchange. This means they can use a stock broker or an individual investment account to buy and sell shares of TSXV-listed companies during the exchange’s trading hours.

      Article by Dean Belder; FAQs by Lauren Kelly.

      Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

      Securities Disclosure: I, Lauren Kelly, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

      This post appeared first on investingnews.com

      Keep Reading