Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid shift in BHP's stance towards China, highlighting the impact of China's decision to halt purchases of dollar-denominated iron ore, leading BHP to agree to settle transactions in RMB, reflecting a significant change in the global commodity settlement landscape [4][10][39]. Group 1: BHP's Initial Stance and Response - Initially, BHP maintained a strong position, believing that China needed their iron ore and would not easily walk away from the relationship [10][12]. - However, after China’s directive to stop purchasing dollar-denominated iron ore, BHP's stock price began to decline sharply, indicating market reactions to the situation [6][10]. - Within a week, BHP was compelled to agree to China's terms, demonstrating a rapid loss of negotiating power [12][14]. Group 2: China's Strategic Positioning - China's ability to leverage its position stems from years of strategic planning, consolidating the purchasing power of over 600 steel companies through the establishment of the China Mineral Resources Group [18][22]. - The diversification of iron ore sources, including long-term agreements with Brazil's Vale, has strengthened China's negotiating position [18][26]. - The West Mangdu iron ore project, expected to produce significant quantities by 2025, further enhances China's supply chain resilience [24]. Group 3: Shift in Global Commodity Settlement - The agreement to use RMB for iron ore transactions marks a significant shift in the global commodity settlement landscape, traditionally dominated by the US dollar [31][35]. - Other major players, including Vale and Fortescue Metals Group, have also agreed to RMB settlements, indicating a broader trend away from dollar dependency [33][35]. - This change is expected to gradually reduce the dollar's dominance in global commodity trade, with RMB becoming a more reliable option for international transactions [35][39].

Core Insights - China's control over rare earths has led to increased interest in the nickel sector, particularly in Australia, as nickel prices have plummeted by 50% from $30,000 per ton in 2022 to $15,000 per ton [1][8] Group 1: Nickel Market Dynamics - The primary cause of the nickel price collapse is over-production in Indonesia, where mines and smelters are largely controlled by Chinese business interests, driving rival producers out of the market [3] - Nickel West, a division of BHP, is significantly affected and is seeking buyers who can compete with Indonesia's low-cost production [4] - Interest in nickel has surged due to its critical role in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, expanding its market beyond traditional stainless steel applications [7][8] Group 2: Investment Activities - Japanese companies Sumitomo Metal Mining and Mitsubishi Corporation have invested in the Goongarrie nickel and cobalt project in Australia, taking a 50% stake [5] - The Goongarrie project is expected to produce 30,000 tons of nickel and 2,000 tons of cobalt annually for 40 years, with a definitive feasibility study (DFS) underway, funded by a $64 million investment from the Japanese firms [6] - U.S.-based investment firms, including Denham Capital, Appian Capital, and Resource Capital Funds, have shown interest in acquiring Nickel West, which was trading at a loss when it was mothballed last year [9]

Core Viewpoint - BHP has agreed to conduct iron ore transactions in RMB, marking a significant shift in the international trading landscape and a milestone in the internationalization of the RMB [1][3]. Group 1: Company Overview - BHP is Australia's largest iron ore group and has been the largest supplier of iron ore to China for decades [3]. - The company has been generating substantial profits from iron ore exports to China, earning over a billion dollars annually, significantly more than the profits of the Chinese steel industry [5]. Group 2: Strategic Moves by China - China has implemented a strategy to control steel production and established the China Mineral Resources Group to unify procurement negotiations, enhancing its bargaining power [7]. - The shift to RMB for iron ore transactions is part of China's broader strategy to reduce reliance on the US dollar and promote "de-dollarization" in international trade [9]. - China has diversified its iron ore supply sources beyond Australia, including Brazil and Russia, reducing its dependency on Australian iron ore [9]. Group 3: Infrastructure Development - China is investing in infrastructure to facilitate iron ore transportation from alternative sources, including constructing large-capacity ships and railways in Africa [9][11]. - This infrastructure development demonstrates China's capability to overcome geographical challenges in securing iron ore supplies [9]. Group 4: Implications for Global Trade - The agreement with BHP signifies a shift in power dynamics, where market strength and technological capabilities dictate trade rules [11]. - The successful model of using RMB for iron ore transactions can be replicated in other commodity markets, benefiting China's manufacturing sector and the broader economy [11].

Core Insights - The global iron ore market is undergoing a significant transformation as a major mining company shifts part of its transactions to be settled in Renminbi, indicating a potential change in the pricing structure of resources [1][9][27] Group 1: Market Dynamics - In early October 2025, a major buyer challenged the pricing and settlement currency for Australian iron ore, leading to a tense negotiation period that lasted nine days [3][9] - The shift to Renminbi settlement is seen as a breakthrough for buyers who have long been subjected to dollar-denominated pricing, marking a shift in pricing power [9][27] - The initial response from the mining company was cautious, reflecting the complexities and risks associated with transitioning to a new currency system [29][31] Group 2: Structural Changes - The transition to Renminbi settlement necessitated a complete overhaul of existing financial systems, including adjustments in banking structures and payment processes [11][27] - The introduction of Renminbi into the settlement system is viewed as a structural reconfiguration of the iron ore trading landscape, moving away from a dollar-dominated framework [11][33] - The first transactions using Renminbi were completed successfully, indicating a gradual acceptance of the new currency in the market [31][39] Group 3: Supply Chain Implications - The Simandou iron ore project in Guinea is set to disrupt the existing market dynamics by providing a new source of high-quality iron ore, potentially reducing the dominance of major players like BHP, Rio Tinto, and Vale [21][23] - As the Simandou project progresses, it is expected to significantly impact the supply chain, with the first shipments anticipated to commence soon [37][39] - The emergence of new supply sources, coupled with the shift to Renminbi settlement, is likely to alter the competitive landscape and pricing mechanisms in the iron ore market [25][41]

Core Viewpoint - The announcement by BHP to allow iron ore transactions with China to be settled in RMB marks a significant shift in the power dynamics of the iron ore market, giving China more control after two decades of being at a disadvantage [2][21][30]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - China accounts for 70% of global iron ore purchases, yet historically, it has been at a disadvantage in negotiations, often paying inflated prices due to a lack of pricing power [5][19]. - The pricing system, primarily based on the Platts index, has been criticized for being manipulated by major financial institutions that also hold stakes in BHP, leading to unfair pricing practices [7][11]. - The reliance on USD for transactions has subjected Chinese companies to currency fluctuations, resulting in additional financial burdens [9][19]. Group 2: Strategic Developments - China has been strategically restructuring its approach to iron ore procurement by consolidating purchasing power through the establishment of the China Mineral Resources Group, which unifies the demands of steel mills [13][19]. - New sources of iron ore, such as the Simandou project in Guinea, are set to significantly reduce dependence on Australian iron ore, with production expected to reach 12 million tons annually [15][19]. - The market share of Australian iron ore in China has decreased from 65% to 52%, indicating a diversification of supply sources [15][19]. Group 3: Future Implications - The shift to RMB settlements is expected to create a closed-loop system where Australian companies can use RMB to purchase Chinese goods, enhancing the international use of the currency [23][25]. - The establishment of a new pricing index based on real transaction prices in China is anticipated to restore pricing power to Chinese buyers [26][30]. - This development could serve as a template for other commodities, potentially leading to a broader shift away from USD dominance in global trade [28][30].

Core Insights - The proportion of iron ore trade settled in RMB has surged from 5% in 2023 to 25%-28% in 2025, indicating a significant shift in the global mining industry dynamics [1][3] - BHP, previously adamant about dollar settlements, has agreed to settle 30% of its spot iron ore transactions in RMB starting from Q4 2025, reflecting China's growing influence as the largest buyer [3][31] - The shift in settlement currency is a result of China's strategic moves to consolidate purchasing power and diversify supply sources, allowing it to negotiate better terms with mining companies [19][21][39] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The average profit margin for major Chinese steel mills is only 0.71% in 2024, highlighting the challenging profitability landscape in the steel industry [6] - BHP's cost to extract iron ore is approximately $19 per ton, while it sells to China at prices significantly higher, leading to substantial profits for Australian companies [6][12] - China imports over 1.2 billion tons of iron ore annually, accounting for more than 70% of global demand, which has historically forced it to accept unfavorable terms [8][12] Group 2: Strategic Developments - In 2022, China established a mineral resources group to consolidate procurement from major steel companies, capturing 40% of domestic iron ore orders and enhancing bargaining power [19] - China has invested in infrastructure projects in Brazil, such as the "Northern Corridor" railway, reducing transportation costs by 30% and increasing the share of Brazilian iron ore imports settled in RMB [21] - The development of the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea, with reserves exceeding 2.25 billion tons, is expected to significantly contribute to China's iron ore supply by 2026 [23] Group 3: Currency Settlement Changes - China has signed currency swap agreements with 42 countries, totaling over 4.1 trillion yuan, facilitating direct RMB settlements in trade [25] - Following BHP's agreement to RMB settlements, other mining companies like Rio Tinto and FMG are also increasing their RMB transaction volumes, indicating a broader trend [35] - The trading volume of RMB-denominated iron ore futures on the Shanghai Futures Exchange has increased by 40% year-on-year, reflecting growing acceptance of RMB in commodity trading [35] Group 4: Implications for Global Trade - The recent negotiations mark a pivotal moment in global commodity trading, with China transitioning from a passive buyer to a key player capable of setting terms [36][41] - Analysts predict that by 2030, the proportion of commodities settled in RMB could reach 30%, signaling a potential shift in the dominance of the dollar in global trade [38] - The changes in settlement practices are not aimed at replacing the dollar but rather at establishing a more equitable trading environment where both buyers and sellers can negotiate on equal footing [42]

澳洲必和必拓将以人民币结算铁矿石贸易 中国首次夺得铁矿石定价权 一直以来，美元凭借"石油─矿石"双支柱垄断全球大宗商品定价与结算体系。铁矿石年贸易额超1.2万亿美元，其中约80%以美元 结算，是中国进口金额最高的单一商品类别之一。长期以来，中国企业承担着巨大的汇率波动成本和清算通道依赖风险。 中国矿产资源集团早前与必和必拓谈判破裂，并于9月底下令全国主要钢厂和贸易商禁止采购任何以美元计价的必和必拓海运铁 矿石，就算到港口也不能卸货，这是中国首次禁止采购澳洲铁矿石。 加速大宗商品结算去美元化 有消息指，必和必拓已在日前接受以人民币结算，代表中方通过集中采购策略取得成果，标志人民币在大宗商品结算领域的突破 性进展。相关报道指出，今后现货铁矿石采用人民币结算，降低美元汇率波动对中企成本的影响。此前谈判中，必和必拓坚持以 美元计价。报道指，必和必拓愿意妥协，主要原因是中方供应来源较以往多元化，新增巴西和非洲铁矿石供应。 报道提到，中国钢铁企业过去因采购分散，难以集中议价力量，长期处于被动接受价格的地位。自从中国矿产资源集团在2022年 成立后，把所有国有钢铁企业的采购权集中一起，代表全国四成铁矿石进口量，对外进行集中 ...

Group 1: Market Dynamics and Price Movements - Copper prices have rebounded following comments from U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding a potential quarter-point rate cut, with prices increasing by as much as 1.8% and rekindling optimism for a $12,000 per ton price point [1] - The market is increasingly trading based on its own fundamentals rather than serving as a proxy for economic strength, with a shift in focus towards structural shortages and long-term electrification demand despite ongoing global growth concerns and tariff risks [2] Group 2: Demand and Supply Outlook - Consultancy Wood Mackenzie projects global copper demand to rise by 24% by 2035, reaching 42.7 million tons per year, while warning that mine supply is not keeping pace with this demand [3] - A significant structural deficit in copper supply is anticipated due to a lack of new projects and rising disruptions, prompting producers to consider reopening previously producing assets as a quicker and more cost-effective solution compared to developing new mines [4][5] Group 3: Company Actions and Strategies - BHP, the world's largest miner, is exploring the reopening of four long-closed mines in Arizona, driven by favorable policy shifts under the Trump administration and a renewed focus on mining [6] - The potential revivals will concentrate on the Globe–Miami region, with plans to reprocess tailings from past operations, including the Magma mine, which is part of the Resolution Copper joint venture with Rio Tinto [6][7] - The Resolution Copper project, once operational, could supply approximately 25% of U.S. copper demand, thereby enhancing domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on imports from politically sensitive regions [7]

BHP is reportedly considering reopening four long-dormant copper mines in Arizona, a key area of the US copper industry. BHP chief executive Mike Henry highlighted the "breathtaking" shift in US Government policy, which has significantly boosted the country's extraction industry, reported the Financial Times (FT). The initiatives, set by President Donald Trump, have led BHP to increase exploration efforts in the US, particularly in Arizona. Henry noted its ambitious approach in the US regarding critical ...

Core Insights - BHP has agreed to use RMB for 30% of its iron ore trade with China, marking a significant shift in international settlement currencies and challenging the dominance of the US dollar in commodity markets [1][3][7] Group 1: Trade Dynamics - China Mineral Resources Group has instructed domestic buyers to halt all dollar-denominated purchases of BHP iron ore, allowing only RMB transactions, which demonstrates China's strong bargaining power in the iron ore market [3] - BHP's long-term contract pricing negotiations revealed a divergence in pricing mechanisms, with BHP proposing a fixed price of $109.5 per ton while China advocated for a market-driven floating price [3] - China's iron ore imports represent nearly 40% of the global market, with an annual volume of approximately 1.1 billion tons, enhancing its negotiating leverage [3] Group 2: Economic Impact - The shift to RMB settlement is expected to save Chinese steel mills about $8 per ton in transaction costs, translating to significant financial savings for large-scale importers [5] - BHP is projected to benefit from improved cash flow and an annual revenue increase of approximately $210 million due to the RMB settlement [5] Group 3: Infrastructure and Support - The Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) has fully integrated RMB settlement for iron ore trade, facilitating smoother transactions and reducing exchange rate risks [5][14] - CIPS processed transactions worth 90.19 trillion yuan in the first half of 2025, covering 189 countries, which supports the growing adoption of RMB in international trade [5] Group 4: Global Trends - As of 2025, RMB settlements accounted for 25% of China's iron ore imports, with significant shares in trade with Brazil (28%) and Russia (48%) [7] - The global iron ore trade, valued at $1.2 trillion in 2025, is predominantly dollar-denominated, but BHP's move signals a potential shift in this paradigm [7] - The trend towards de-dollarization is accelerating, with various countries exploring alternative currencies for international trade [7][10] Group 5: Future Prospects - The introduction of RMB-denominated iron ore futures by the London Metal Exchange in 2026 and the establishment of a RMB pricing index by JPMorgan are indicative of a broader acceptance of RMB in commodity pricing [7][12] - The potential for a stable RMB settlement mechanism in commodity markets could reshape the international monetary system and challenge the existing dollar-centric framework [16]