Copper · Market
September 8, 2026
LME Copper Hits Record High Above $14,700/tonne as US Tariff Expectations Drive Inventory Shifts
Three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange surged to a new record high, breaking through $14,700 per tonne. The rally is driven by US tariff expectations triggering metal inventory repositioning, with American markets drawing global copper stocks. Combined with supply constraints from major mining operations, analysts see continued price support in the near term.
Source: LME / Reuters
Gold · Investment
September 8, 2026
Gold Holds Near $4,400/oz as Central Bank Purchases Continue; Silver Gains 1.2%
Gold prices remain elevated near $4,400 per ounce, supported by sustained central bank buying. Global central bank gold purchases rose 12% year-over-year in H1 2026, with major economies continuing to diversify reserves. Silver followed suit, gaining 1.2% to $66.9/oz. Mining companies report record margins, with average gold AISC at $1,539/oz versus prices near $4,400/oz.
Source: World Gold Council / LBMA
Industry · Smelting
August 18, 2026
Copper Smelting Fees Collapse to Zero as Concentrate Supply Tightens; Smelters Pivot to Gold and Sulfuric Acid
Copper smelting treatment charges have fallen from $80/tonne in 2024 to zero on annual contracts, as concentrate supply shrinks while smelter capacity grows. Mining companies now hold stronger negotiating power. Some smelters are diversifying into gold, silver and sulfuric acid production to offset declining copper treatment revenue. This shift impacts chemical supply chains, including sulfuric acid used in mining and processing.
Source: S&P Global / Chosunbiz
Market · Outlook
August 24, 2026
Global Mining Market Cap Reaches $2.8 Trillion in 2026; Structural Divergence Creates Opportunities
PwC reports the global mining industry market capitalization reached $2.8 trillion in 2026, with significant structural divergence. Precious metals and copper producers benefit from strong prices and record margins, while battery metals like lithium face oversupply with 47% of production operating at a loss in H1. Critical minerals supply chain competition intensifies as nations pursue strategic reserves. Mining chemical suppliers see steady demand from gold and copper operations.
Source: PwC Global Mining Report
ESG · Water Treatment
August 6, 2026
Mining Industry Faces Inflation Reckoning in H1 2026; Water Treatment and ESG Costs Rise
S&P Global reports that mining companies face rising costs across operations in H1 2026, from energy to labor to environmental compliance. Mine water treatment and tailings management costs continue to increase as regulations tighten globally. Companies investing in efficient water treatment chemicals and recycling systems gain competitive advantage. Demand for coagulants like PAC and pH adjusters like caustic soda remains robust as mines prioritize water recycling and clean discharge.
Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence