MINING.COM·2025-10-01 15:37Leadership Changes - Mark Bristow has abruptly stepped down from Barrick Mining, despite previously committing to stay until 2028 to oversee significant projects like the $9 billion Reko Diq mine in Pakistan [2][3] - Barrick has appointed Mark Hill as interim chief while searching for a permanent replacement [2] - Natascha Viljoen will become the new CEO of Newmont on January 1, succeeding Tom Palmer, marking a historic moment as she will be the first woman to lead the company in its 104-year history [4] Market Performance - Gold prices have surged over 45% this year, reaching record highs above $3,800 an ounce and peaking over $3,895 [5] - Despite the rising gold prices, both Barrick and Newmont have underperformed compared to peers like Agnico Eagle and Kinross, leading to shareholder frustration [5] Industry Developments - Zijin Mining has become the world's third-largest miner by market capitalization, surpassing $100 billion [6] - Zijin Gold International, a subsidiary of Zijin Mining, raised $3.2 billion in a Hong Kong IPO, contributing significantly to the $6.7 billion attracted by the sector from new listings and block trades in the third quarter [6] - The gold sector is entering a new era characterized by significant leadership changes and soaring prices [6]