The Explosive Growth of Critical Minerals

Global mineral production has climbed dramatically over the last six decades as industrialization, urbanization, and electrification reshape the global economy. The fastest growth is now occurring in minerals tied to the energy transition. Lithium production, for example, has surged from almost nothing in 1960 to 240,000 tonnes in 2024, while rare earth output has also accelerated sharply amid rising demand …

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Most Investors Think Silver Is Precious Metal – Industry Thinks It’s a Critical Material

The traditional investment thesis for silver has long mirrored that of gold, with market participants historically treating it as a monetary safe haven to be accumulated during inflationary cycles or periods of broader macroeconomic stress. However, a stark divergence has emerged between retail investor sentiment and industrial reality. On the factory floor, silver is increasingly viewed not as a luxury store of …

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UBS lifts copper price forecasts on supply constraints despite mixed near-term signals

UBS has raised its copper price forecasts, citing a positive fundamental outlook driven by supply constraints and resilient demand from the energy transition, despite mixed near-term demand signals. The investment bank increased its 2026 copper forecasts by 13%, and lifted 2027 and 2028 projections by 4% and 3% respectively to $6.0 per pound or $13,200 per tonne. Long-term forecasts were raised by …

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