Rio Tinto (NYSE:RIO) Bolsa

Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a global diversified miner. Iron ore is the dominant commodity, with significantly lesser contributions from copper, aluminum, diamonds, gold, and industrial minerals. The 1995 merger of RTZ and CRA, via a dual-listed structure, created the present-day company. The two operate as a single business entity, with shareholders in each company having equivalent economic and voting rights. Major assets included the Pilbara iron ore operations, a 30% stake in the Escondida copper mine, 66%-ownership of the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia, the Weipa and Gove bauxite mines in Australia, and six hydro-powered aluminum smelters in Canada.

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Nvidia lidera las apuestas finales de CNBC. Cisco, Rio Tinto y Chipotle también destacan antes de sus próximos movimientos clave.

CNBC Halftime Report: Nvidia, Cisco, Rio Tinto y Chipotle entre las apuestas clave antes de los resultados

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EE.UU. se prepara para aplicar aranceles del 25% a las importaciones de cobre, lo que podría afectar a los precios y productores globales.

EE.UU. podría imponer aranceles del 25 % al cobre: Impacto en el mercado global y productores

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Rio Tinto shares are trading lower after the company reported a year-over-year decrease in H1 adjusted EPS results.

Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) reported its weakest half-year profit since 2020, as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/iron-ore" rel="noreferrer noopener">soft iron prices</a> and weather-related disruptions in Western Australia weighed on results. The top global miner posted a 22% drop in net profit to $4.5 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2025. Underlying earnings declined 16% year-on-year to $4.81 billion, missing analyst expectations of $5.05 billion.
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) fell 5% to $11.5 billion, while operating cash flow held steady at $6.9 billion. However, free cash flow dropped sharply by 31% to $2.0 billion, reflecting higher capital expenditure. Rio Tinto&#8217;s net debt more than doubled to $14.6 billion, primarily due to the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/10/41203850/rio-tinto-confirms-interest-in-arcadium-lithium-shares-surge" rel="noreferrer noopener">$6.7 billion acquisition</a> of Arcadium Lithium, finalized in March.
&#8220;We are delivering very resilient financial results with an improving operational performance, helped by our increasingly diversified portfolio,&#8221; <a target="_blank" href="https://www.riotinto.com/en/invest/financial-news-performance/results" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> outgoing CEO Jakob Stausholm. &#8220;Underlying EBITDA of $11.5 billion and operating cash flow of $6.9 billion, despite a 13% lower iron ore price, demonstrate the growing contribution from our aluminium and copper businesses and our Pilbara operations&#8217; strong recovery from the four cyclones in the first quarter.&#8221;
Stausholm will step down on August 25, with Simon Trott, head of the iron ore division, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/07/46413215/rio-tinto-names-iron-boss-simon-trott-as-new-ceo" rel="noreferrer noopener">appointed as the new CEO</a>.
First-half performance was mixed across the board. Group production rose 6% on a copper-equivalent basis. Copper output surged 54% at the Oyu Tolgoi mine in Mongolia. Aluminium benefited from strong operational improvements at the Amrun and Gove sites, while bauxite production remained flat.
Iron ore rebounded in the second quarter after severe weather disruptions in the first quarter, with Pilbara recording its strongest quarterly output since 2018. Despite this, iron ore unit costs in Pilbara rose to $24.3 per wet metric ton (wmt), up from $23.2/wmt a year earlier. The company reaffirmed its full-year Pilbara shipment guidance at the lower end of the 323–338 million ton range.
Rio Tinto spent $72 million in capital expenditure and $181 million in operating costs toward decarbonization, aiming to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to a 2018 baseline. First-half emissions stood at 15.6 million tons CO₂-equivalent, down 14%. The company also advanced agreements with Yinhawangka Traditional Owners in Western Australia, including a co-designed heritage management plan for the Western Range project.
Despite declining cash flows, Rio maintained its 50% interim payout policy, declaring a dividend of $2.4 billion or $1.48 per share.
&#8220;Our strong cash flow enables us to maintain our practice of a 50% interim payout,&#8221; said Stausholm. &#8220;We remain on track to deliver strong mid-term production growth, with solid foundations in place and a diverse pipeline of options for the future.&#8221;
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Rio Tinto Posts Weakest Half-Year Profit In Years

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Earnings Scheduled For July 30, 2025

Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $2.96 per share. This is a 16.38 percent decrease over earnings of $3.54 per share from the same period last year. The company reported $26.87 billion in sales this quarter. This is a 0.26 percent increase over sales of $26.80 billion the same period last year.

Rio Tinto H1 Adj. EPS $2.96 Down From $3.54 YoY, Sales $26.87B Up From $26.80B YoY

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723534247/en/Rio-Tinto-and-ENAMI-sign-binding-agreement-for-Salares-Altoandinos-lithium-project-in-Chile" title="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723534247/en/Rio-Tinto-and-ENAMI-sign-binding-agreement-for-Salares-Altoandinos-lithium-project-in-Chile">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723534247/en/Rio-Tinto-and-ENAMI-sign-binding-agreement-for-Salares-Altoandinos-lithium-project-in-Chile</a>

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Rio Tinto And ENAMI Sign Binding Agreement For Salares Altoandinos Lithium Project In Chile; Rio Tinto To Buy 51% Interest, Provide Up To $425M; Deal Expected To Close In First Half Of 2026

VALE

Shares of iron ore stocks are trading higher after iron ore prices rebounded above $100.

Iron ore prices have rebounded above $100 for the first time since February. Renewed optimism about China's economic resilience and the announcement of construction of the world's largest hydropower dam drove momentum of the futures market in Singapore.
Yet, some analysts believe the rally is unsustainable given the market dynamics and healthy <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/iron-ore" rel="noreferrer noopener">capacity increases from key producers</a>.
In a note cited <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-16/iron-ore-tops-100-for-first-time-since-may-on-china-sentiment" rel="noreferrer noopener">by</a> Bloomberg, Citi strategists, including Shreyas Madabushi, warned that "prices are currently above market fundamentals," suggesting a more modest and gradual decline in steel output rather than an aggressive contraction.
Meanwhile, Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) has fast-tracked its timeline for shipments from the massive Simandou iron ore mine in Guinea. The firm expects to ship 0.5 to 1 million tons this November.
While the monumental project could deliver as much as 120 million tons annually, the ramp-up should remain gradual.
RBC analysts forecast output will reach just 12 million tons in 2026 and not top 48 million until 2028.
RIO's rival BHP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BHP#NYSE">BHP</a>) reported a 14% quarter-on-quarter jump in Q4 iron ore production to 70.3 million tons, helping push annual output to a record 290 million tons.
While oversupply looms, official Chinese economic data indicate strong demand, further supported by Premier Li Quiang's Monday announcement.
Quiang broke news on construction of the world's largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The dam, which is expected to exceed the Three Gorges Dam by at least a factor of three, is expected to drive significant demand for construction-grade steel.
Per China Briefing's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.china-briefing.com/news/chinas-economy-in-h1-2025-gdp-trade-and-fdi-highlights/" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>, GDP rose 5.3% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, with industrial output up 6.4%, services growing 5.5%, and retail sales up 5.0%. Fixed asset investment rose 2.8%, led by manufacturing, and disposable income grew 5.4% in real terms. National Bureau of Statistics Deputy Head Sheng Laiyun called the results a "hard-won achievement" amid global volatility.
Former Australian Ambassador to China Geoff Raby noted that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's latest visit to China provides an opportunity.
"Although China's growth in demand for Australian iron ore is tapering off, the absolute volume we sell is so large that even a small uptick in demand will lead to tremendous increases in volume," Raby <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuBsZheeGB8" rel="noreferrer noopener">told</a> ABC. "It's a two-way relationship," he added, arguing that China's pivot to green steel is not a threat, but a future opportunity for Australian producers.
"We have massive potential in terms of renewable energy. Ross Garnaut has written about this on numerous occasions in books, and he talks about Australia being the energy superpower of the future because of this very reason."
Raby also clarified that Australia must balance its engagement with China against global pressures, especially from the U.S.
"The Prime Minister has stuck to our strong commitment to free trade, and has not gone down the path of retaliatory tariffs. So, I think that puts us in a very strong position," he said.
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Asia

China-Led Rally Sends Iron Ore Over $100 Despite Looming Oversupply

Canada will introduce new measures to defend its steel industry against the impact of tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the implementation of the plan <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46019157/canada-threatens-higher-tariffs-on-us-steel-aluminum-if-no-deal-is-reached-by-july-21-mark-carney-says-hes-ensuring-protection-against-unjust-us-levies">proposed a month</a> ago, during a visit to Hamilton-based steel fabricator Walter&#8217;s Group.
"This is about protecting Canadian jobs and standing up for fair trade," Carney <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ56SomOPyE">said</a> per CPAC, adding that more than 90% of Canada's steel exports currently go to the U.S.—a concentration he called "unsustainable."
"We will also implement tariffs on steel imports from all non-U.S. countries containing steel melted and poured in China," he added. Carney's reaction comes after President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum to 50% on June 3.
To address this situation, Carney proposed a new <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2025/07/support-for-the-canadian-steel-sector.html">tariff rate quota system</a>. Starting August 1, countries with free trade agreements (excluding the U.S. and Mexico) will face a 50% tariff on any steel exports to Canada that exceed 2024 volumes. For countries without such agreements, the quota for tariff-free steel imports will be cut to half of 2024 levels, with the same 50% tariff applied above that threshold.
Furthermore, the government will provide up to CA$1 billion ($730 million) into the Strategic Innovation Fund to help domestic steel companies modernize, develop high-value defense-related products, and shift into markets less exposed to foreign competition. Ottawa also pledged CA$70 million ($50.90 million) over three years for retraining and support for up to 10,000 workers via Labour Market Development Agreements.
&#8220;These measures will ensure Canadian steel producers are more competitive by protecting them against trade diversion resulting from a fast-changing global environment. This is about building a steel industry that Canadians can count on—no matter what's happening abroad,&#8221; Carney said.
Commodity heavyweight Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>), Canada's top aluminum exporter, has already felt the impact of U.S. tariffs. According to a Bloomberg <a href="https://news.bloombergtax.com/international-trade/rio-says-trump-tariffs-added-300-million-in-costs-for-aluminum">report</a>, the firm stated Wednesday that it incurred $321 million in additional costs due to U.S. duties on its aluminum in the first half of the year. However, a portion has been recovered through higher Midwest premiums.
"The impact of tariffs is still feeding through to inflation and sentiment," the company said, warning that uncertainty could weigh further on downstream demand.
Despite the disruption, Rio has continued shipping about three-quarters of its Canadian aluminum output to the U.S. But executives say rising costs, combined with trade volatility, are testing the resilience of cross-border supply chains.
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Canada Hits Back At Trump's 50% Steel Tariffs With $1 Billion Rescue, New Quota System

Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) appointed Simon Trott as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective August 25, 2025. Trott, currently the head of the multinational miner's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/iron-ore" rel="noreferrer noopener">iron ore division</a>, will be the fourth leader within the last ten years.
"Simon is an outstanding leader with a deep understanding of mining," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2025/rio-tinto-appoints-simon-trott-as-chief-executive" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Rio Tinto chair Dominic Barton. "He came into our Iron Ore business at a time of significant challenges and has been instrumental in rebuilding culture and strengthening relationships."
Barton confirmed that the board considered both internal and external candidates, including Chief Commercial Officer Bold Baatar and Aluminium Chief Jérôme Pécresse.
According <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/772d32ab-7ee6-4000-8297-f7a7e27bb153" rel="noreferrer noopener">to</a> The Financial Times, Berenberg's analyst Richard Hatch noted Trott's appointment "telegraphs the status quo for Rio," suggesting he may be less aggressive in strategic pivots than other contenders.
Trott brings 25 years of experience across Rio's operations and geographies. As head of the company's iron ore division—its most profitable business—he oversaw operational and safety improvements and reset key relationships in the Pilbara.
Previously, he served as the first Chief Commercial Officer, where he built the group's commercial platform and expanded global customer relationships.
He will replace Jakob Stausholm, who has led the firm since 2021 and guided it through a period of cultural and strategic reset following the destruction of sacred Aboriginal sites in 2020.
Under Stausholm, Rio Tinto strengthened stakeholder relations, reoriented its portfolio around growth commodities, and led major transactions—including the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/10/41203850/rio-tinto-confirms-interest-in-arcadium-lithium-shares-surge" rel="noreferrer noopener">$6.7 billion all-cash acquisition</a> of Arcadium Lithium.
"It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead Rio Tinto," Trott said. "The progress we've made provides a foundation to deliver improved performance. I look forward to working with our shareholders, communities, and employees to shape the company's next chapter."
Trott will receive a base salary of $1.8 million (£1.34 million), along with participation in incentive plans, standard benefits, and pension contributions of 14% of his base salary. Still, responsibilities in his new role will be significant, as the firm has to streamline the newly acquired lithium operations in South America, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41289306/serbian-parliament-doesnt-pass-lithium-ban-keeps-rio-tintos-major-project-alive" rel="noreferrer noopener">resolve a stalled</a> Jadar project in Serbia, and most notably, advance the long-delayed generational Resolution copper <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/05/45640179/supreme-court-rejects-appeal-allows-rio-tinto-mine-to-proceed-on-tonto-forest-sacred-land" rel="noreferrer noopener">project in Arizona</a>—a potential cornerstone for Rio's future growth in U.S. critical minerals.
RIO Price Action: Rio Tinto shares were down 0.53% at $59.50 premarket at the time of publication Tuesday,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Photo by Adwo via Shutterstock

Management

Rio Tinto Names Iron Boss Simon Trott As New CEO

Previously, as Rio Tinto's first Chief Commercial Officer, Simon established the Group's Commercial operations, unlocking efficiency and deepening strategic customer relationships. Prior to this he held Managing Director roles across multiple Rio Tinto commodities and geographies.

Rio Tinto Appoints Simon Trott As Chief Executive Officer, Succeeding Jakob Stausholm Effective August 25

Global <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/copper">copper production</a> is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 2.9% over the next decade. The latest forecast from BMI (Fitch Solutions) expects the rise from 23.8 million tons in 2025 to 30.9 million tons by 2034, owing to new projects and expansions across key jurisdictions in South America, Asia, and Africa.
The report, cited <a href="https://www.metal.com/en/newscontent/103424116">by</a> Shanghai Metals Market, shows that global copper output is expected to rise 2.5% in 2025, driven by a recovery in Chile and further ramp-up at Mongolia's Oyu Tolgoi mine.
The 2025 projection has been revised downward slightly due to reduced guidance at the Kamoa-Kakula mine in the DRC, which was affected by seismic activity. BMI noted continued downside risks flagged by miners such as Glencore (OTCPK: GLCNF) and Anglo American (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAUKD#OTC">AAUKD</a>), but noted an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/guidance/25/01/42840568/chiles-codelco-targets-turnaround-with-modest-copper-output-increase-and-strategic-lithium-ventures">optimistic outlook</a> from key producers like Chile's Codelco.
Regionally, Chile is forecast to maintain its position as the world's top copper producer, with 2025 output expected to reach 5.7 million tons, accounting for around 25% of global supply. Sustained growth from Teck Resources' (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TECK#NYSE">TECK</a>) Quebrada Blanca project will help offset declines at aging mines from Codelco, which linger despite <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44709462/miners-urge-chile-to-cut-bureaucracy-before-country-loses-copper-leadership">multi-billion-dollar capex</a>.
Zambia, while facing structural challenges, is also expected to post steady gains as investor interest grows and reforms take hold. BMI believes that countries across Africa and South America could capture a greater share of global production as Western manufacturers push for diversified and stable supply chains.
Copper is currently in the spotlight owing to President Donald Trump's plan to impose a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/07/46339702/trumps-copper-tariff-echoes-through-global-mining-tunnels">50% tariff on refined copper</a> beginning August 1. Yet, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44592724/under-the-radar-navigating-the-copper-crunch-amidst-tariff-turbulence">domestic shortages</a> might force the administration to reconsider before higher costs start pushing prices higher. Jefferies analyst Christopher LaFemina <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-09/copper-futures-in-london-drop-after-trump-plan-50-import-tariff">warned</a> that "the U.S. does not have nearly enough mine, smelter or refinery capacity to be self-sufficient in copper," adding that tariffs are likely to drive U.S. price premiums higher relative to global markets.
Still, foreign miners see an opportunity in ramping up the US production. Per Bloomberg's <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-11/rio-tinto-wants-to-invest-more-in-us-copper-under-trump-tariffs?srnd=phx-markets">report</a>, Rio Tinto's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) copper Chief Executive Katie Jackson said the company sees "significant opportunities to grow our business in the United States" and noted a "strong desire" to invest more in U.S. copper mining.&nbsp;
Industry veteran Robert Friedland backed Trump's tariff plan, calling it "obvious and intelligent" for pushing domestic production.
"There's a new list of critical raw materials and without it, you can't do anything about global warming or greening the world economy, and you have a critical vulnerability in national security," the billionaire founder of Ivanhoe Mines <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/bcd9b72d-4ebb-4d07-b20e-3a2e2c014f41">said</a> to The Financial Times.
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Image: Shutterstock/Siwakorn TH

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Global Copper Output to Grow 2.9% Annually Through 2034

<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-11/rio-tinto-wants-to-invest-more-in-us-copper-under-trump-tariffs?embedded-checkout=true">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-11/rio-tinto-wants-to-invest-more-in-us-copper-under-trump-tariffs?embedded-checkout=true</a>

General

'Rio Tinto Wants to Invest More in US Copper Under Trump Tariffs'- Bloomberg

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Shares of metals stocks are trading lower after President Trump announced tariffs on multiple countries.

Aluminerie Alouette, Canada's largest aluminum smelter and a key supplier to the U.S. market, announced a CA$1.5 billion ($1.1 billion) investment in its northern Québec facilities. The firm, owned by a Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>)-led consortium, is making this commitment despite growing pressure from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs">U.S. tariffs</a> and global trade uncertainty.
"Today's announcement, which we have been working on for several months, paves the way for the coming decades for our current and future employees, our communities and our business partners," <a href="https://www.alouette.com/en/media/press-releases?id=3201&amp;pg=0">said</a> Claude Gosselin, President and CEO of Aluminerie Alouette.
"We sincerely appreciate the collaboration of the Quebec government and Hydro-Québec for their unwavering confidence in the essential role that primary aluminum plays in the economic vitality of both our region and the province," he added.
The investment follows a newly signed long-term power agreement with Hydro-Québec that will guarantee electricity supply through 2045. With an annual capacity of 630,000 metric tons, the Sept-Îles facility is critical to North American aluminum supply chains.
Owned by a consortium that includes Rio Tinto (40%), Hydro Aluminium (20%), AMAG Austria Metall (20%), Marubeni (13.33%), and QUALIUM (6.67%), Aluminerie Alouette employs around 950 people and represents the largest private employer in the region.
Aluminum produced in Québec is particularly important to the United States, which has only four operating primary aluminum smelters, which are insufficient for domestic needs. Canada supplies approximately 2.7 million metric tons of aluminum to the U.S. annually, supporting sectors from automotive and aerospace to food packaging. The U.S., however, has threatened tariffs of up to 50% on Canadian aluminum, a move widely criticized as counterproductive.
"The United States needs Quebec to meet its demand, especially since we produce 70% of all aluminum in North America," Quebec's Economy Minister Christine Frechette said, according<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-02/rio-tinto-backed-aluminum-firm-to-invest-1-1-billion-in-canada-smelter"> to</a> Bloomberg. Still, with U.S. tariffs pushing Canadian aluminum out of the market, American manufacturers face <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44338152/can-manufacturers-warn-about-tariffs-ask-for-targeted-relief">rising costs for essential goods</a>, while Canada&#8217;s producers look to Europe for alternative buyers.
The Canadian aluminum industry has taken steps to protect its market integrity, including supporting Finance Canada&#8217;s new import monitoring system and the "Country of Smelt and Cast" provisions designed to block unfair trade. Jean Simard, President of the Aluminium Association of Canada, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45766967/us-aluminum-tariffs-risk-supply-chain-and-food-security-industry-insiders-warn">noted</a> that Canadian aluminum "is not—and will not be—a backdoor for unfair trade," pointing to Canada's leadership in traceability and sustainability.
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Financing

Aluminerie Alouette to Invest $1.1 Billion in Major Canadian Aluminum Revamp

Chile's Congress has passed a long-awaited mining regulation reform to cut permitting times drastically. The reform is expected to boost investor confidence in the world's top copper producer and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/lithium" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-largest lithium supplier</a>.
The legislation, passed with 93 votes in favor, 27 against, and 17 abstentions, amends over 40 sectoral laws and now awaits President Gabriel Boric's signature to become law.
"This will allow us to substantially reduce permitting times while maintaining our regulatory rigour," Economy Minister Nicolás Grau said after the vote, according <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/chiles-congress-approves-law-speed-up-permitting-process-investment-projects-2025-07-01/" rel="noreferrer noopener">to</a> Reuters.
The reform is expected to reduce permitting timelines by 30% to 70%, addressing long-standing complaints from the mining and renewable energy industries that permitting delays stifle billions of dollars in investment.
Before the reform, major mining projects often waited more than a decade for approval. For example, the average permit process in Chile can last up to 12 years, one of the longest globally.
The new legislation institutionalizes a digital one-stop permitting platform, "SUPER," which allows end-to-end case tracking and service interoperability. It also establishes a new coordinating body, the Sectoral Authorizations and Investment Office, to modernize permitting procedures.
Despite the breakthrough, challenges remain. Jorge Riesco, president of Chile's National Mining Society (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sonami.cl/v2/noticias/presidente-de-sonami-por-aprobacion-de-ley-marco-de-permisos-sectoriales-valoramos-el-esfuerzo-del-ejecutivo/" rel="noreferrer noopener">SONAMI</a>), called the reform "a step in the right direction" but stressed that "more work is needed" to modernize Chile's permitting framework fully.
When Gabriel Boric assumed the presidency in 2022, he pledged to bolster environmental protections and reverse the deregulation trends set by his predecessor, Sebastián Piñera.
A <a target="_blank" href="https://www.icij.org/investigations/pandora-papers/chile-rejects-dominga-mining-project-a-longtime-flashpoint-for-environmental-and-political-controversy/" rel="noreferrer noopener">key scandal</a> related to Piñera's sale of his stake in the controversial Dominga project—reportedly contingent on regulatory favors—had a significant impact on the public debate regarding mining oversight. Boric ran on a platform critical of unchecked extractivism, and while he opposes projects like the Dominga, his government is not anti-mining.
To balance environmental protection and growth, Boric introduced the "<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sea.gob.cl/en/noticias/presidente-de-la-republica-gabriel-boric-presenta-dos-proyectos-de-ley-para-mejorar-la" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Evaluation 2.0</a>" plan—a separate but complementary reform to streamline environmental assessments. The proposal has stirred up criticism from both sides of the aisle. Industry groups argue that it gives courts too much power to delay projects, while environmental NGOs insist it caters to big economic interests.&nbsp;
Environmental issues remain a significant challenge. In 2022, BHP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BHP#NYSE">BHP</a>) was fined $8.2 million for over-extracting water in the sensitive Atacama region, which is home to the massive Escondida copper mine.
To address this, innovation in extraction methods—especially those related to lithium—is gaining attention. Technologies like Direct Lithium Extraction are being promoted to reduce water consumption and environmental degradation.&nbsp;
According to Chile's Constituent Assembly's 2022 decision, Boric is ineligible to run for reelection in 2026. Still, the policies launched during his term will direct the development of one of the key mining countries in the ongoing commodity cycle.
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REMX

Chile Cuts Up To 70% Of Red Tape, Promises Streamlined Mining Approvals

<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-02/rio-tinto-backed-aluminum-firm-to-invest-1-1-billion-in-canada-smelter" title="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-02/rio-tinto-backed-aluminum-firm-to-invest-1-1-billion-in-canada-smelter">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-02/rio-tinto-backed-aluminum-firm-to-invest-1-1-billion-in-canada-smelter</a>

'Rio Tinto-Backed Aluminum Firm to Invest $1.1 Billion in Canada Project' - Bloomberg News

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer said Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) has a big yield and recommended buying the stock. &#8220;I believe in the minerals. I think you're fine,&#8221; he added.
As per the recent news, Rio Tinto and Hancock Prospecting announced on June 24 a joint investment of $1.61 billion to develop the Hope Downs 2 iron ore project in Western Australia&#8217;s Pilbara region. A 50-50 investment will drive a significant expansion of the long-standing Hope Downs Joint Venture between the two companies.
Cramer said TG Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGTX#NASDAQ">TGTX</a>) is a buy.
Supporting his view, the company, on May 5, reported first-quarter sales of $120.86 million, up from $63.47 million a year ago, beating the consensus of $118.43 million.
Michael S. Weiss, TG Therapeutics Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "2025 is off to a strong start, and I'm incredibly proud of the progress made thus far. Our performance in the first quarter, including BRIUMVI's $119.7 million in U.S. net sales, demonstrates the growing confidence in our treatment and the increasing adoption by healthcare providers.&#8221;
&#8220;This momentum, combined with the positive feedback we're hearing from both patients and clinicians, reinforces our belief that we can achieve our long-term goal of BRIUMVI becoming the number one prescribed anti-CD20 treatment based on dynamic market share," he added.
Price Action:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Rio Tinto shares fell 0.7% to settle at $58.33 on Monday.</li>
<li>TG Therapeutics shares declined 2% to close at $35.99.</li>
</ul>
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TGTX

Cramer Backs This Mining Giant After $1.6B Bet

Rio Tinto (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) and Hancock Prospecting have announced on Tuesday a joint investment of $1.61 billion to develop the Hope Downs 2 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/iron-ore" rel="noreferrer noopener">iron ore project</a> in Western Australia's Pilbara region. A 50-50 investment will drive a significant expansion of the long-standing Hope Downs Joint Venture between the two companies.
"Approval of Hope Downs 2 is a key milestone for Rio Tinto, as we invest in the next generation of iron ore mines in the Pilbara," Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Simon Trott said in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2025/rio-tinto-and-hancock-prospecting-to-invest-1-6-billion-to-develop-the-hope-downs-2-project-in-western-australias-pilbara" rel="noreferrer noopener">today's announcement</a>.
"These projects are part of our strategy to continue investing in Australian iron ore and to sustain Pilbara production for decades to come, supporting jobs, local businesses, and the state and national economies," he added.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45817251" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rio Tinto Opens $2B Pilbara Iron Ore Mine With China's Baowu</a>
The investment will fund the development of two new above-water-table iron ore pits at Hope Downs 2 and Bedded Hilltop. With a combined annual production capacity of 31 million tons, the new deposits will extend the life of the Hope Downs operations, which commenced in 2007. Ore from the new pits will be transported to the existing Hope Downs 1 processing facility. First ore is expected in 2027.
The project scope includes non-process infrastructure precincts, haul roads, rail crossings, and a realignment of a 6-kilometer stretch of the Great Northern Highway.
Rio Tinto's share in the $1.61 billion investment is part of a broader capital expenditure plan, with the miner intending to spend over $13 billion between 2025 and 2027 on new mines, equipment, and infrastructure.
"The Pilbara has been critical to global steel supply for more than 60 years, and we are committed to ensuring it remains so well into the future," Trott said.
Hope Downs 2 has secured all required State and Federal approvals. Rio Tinto has actively engaged with the Nyiyaparli, Banjima, and Ngarlawangga Peoples, as well as with government bodies, to manage heritage and environmental considerations.
The project is expected to create over 950 jobs during the construction phase and, once operational, approximately 1,000 full-time roles across the Greater Hope Downs complex.
Hope Downs 2 is part of Rio Tinto's broader plan to maintain a mid-term iron ore production capacity of 345 to 360 million tons per annum from its Pilbara operations. The company is also conducting a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/05/45163353/rio-tinto-stops-activist-campaign-explores-critical-minerals-opportunities" rel="noreferrer noopener">pre-feasibility study</a> on the Rhodes Ridge project, one of the most promising undeveloped iron ore deposits in the region.
Still, according to the research firm BMI, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44243837/iron-ore-production-to-accelerate-until-2030-study-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term outlook</a> for iron ore is subdued. Prices are forecast to average $100 per ton in 2025 but are expected to decline to $78 per ton by 2034 gradually. While short-term demand from China remains resilient, BMI anticipates a structural shift in its economy toward less steel-intensive sectors and expects steady global supply growth to moderate prices over the next decade.
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Photo by Adwo via Shutterstock

Rio Tinto, Hancock Invest $1.6 Billion In Hope Downs 2 Expansion

Rio Tinto Plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) disclosed on Thursday that it has officially inaugurated its newest <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket" rel="noreferrer noopener">iron ore mine, Western Range</a>.
The Western Range is one of several replacement projects, collectively boasting an annual capacity of approximately 130 million tonnes.
The mine is designed to produce up to 25 million tonnes of iron ore annually, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250605488902/en/Rio-Tinto-and-Baowu-open-Western-Range-iron-ore-mine-in-the-Pilbara-with-Yinhawangka-Traditional-Owners" rel="noreferrer noopener">it </a>has the potential to sustain the existing Paraburdoo mining hub for as long as two decades.
The $2 billion project, a joint venture between Rio Tinto (54%) and Baowu (46%), was finished on time and within budget.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/05/45640179/supreme-court-rejects-appeal-allows-rio-tinto-mine-to-proceed-on-tonto-forest-sacred-land" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supreme Court Rejects Appeal, Allows Rio Tinto Mine To Proceed On Tonto Forest Sacred Land</a>
This endeavor included constructing a primary crusher and an 18-kilometer conveyor system that connects to the existing Paraburdoo processing plant.
The new mine ensures stability for Paraburdoo&#8217;s workforce of over 880 residential and FIFO (fly-in/fly-out) employees.
The Western Range project is notable as Rio Tinto&#8217;s inaugural endeavor to incorporate a co-designed Social, Cultural and Heritage Management Plan (SCHMP) alongside the Yinhawangka Traditional Owners.
Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm said, "Opening Western Range is an important step in Rio Tinto's extension plans in the Pilbara and ensures the longevity of one of our oldest mining hubs, Paraburdoo, which began operating in 1972.&#8221;
"Partnering with Baowu ensures our biggest customer directly benefits with a consistent, dedicated supply of Rio Tinto's world leading Pilbara Blend iron ore."
Notably, over the next three years (2025-2027), Rio Tinto anticipates investing more than $13 billion in new mines, plants, and equipment.
This follows an investment of approximately $8.5 billion in the Pilbara during the preceding three-year period (2022-2024).
In May, the company disclosed that Stausholm will step down from his role later this year and disclosed 2029 bauxite expansion in Queensland with a feasibility study for a 20 million tonne <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45564513/rio-tinto-ceo-jakob-stausholm-to-step-down-launches-19b-bauxite-expansion-plan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boost to Weipa output</a>.
Price Action: RIO shares are down 0.57% at $58.89 at last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45513934/rio-tinto-expands-lithium-push-with-900-million-maricunga-deal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rio Tinto Expands Lithium Push With $900 Million Maricunga Deal</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Mid Cap

Rio Tinto Opens $2B Pilbara Iron Ore Mine With China's Baowu

<a href="https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/rio-tinto-revising-cost-serbia-lithium-project-2025-06-04/" title="https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/rio-tinto-revising-cost-serbia-lithium-project-2025-06-04/">https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/rio-tinto-revising-cost-serbia-lithium-project-2025-06-04/</a>

Reported Earlier: "Rio Tinto Revising Cost Of Serbia Lithium Project" - Reuters News

Iron Ore's Price Collapse Threatens Mining Operations

Rio Tinto Buys Arcadium Lithium For $6.7 Billion

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