Cliffs(US:CLF) Yahoo Finance·2025-10-20 16:19Core Viewpoint - Cleveland-Cliffs reported third-quarter earnings with a net loss and a revenue drop, yet the stock surged by 24.5% due to investor interest in new developments related to critical minerals and a significant memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a global steel producer [1][3][4]. Financial Performance - The company reported revenue of $4.7 billion, which missed estimates by $200 million [3]. - A net loss was recorded, indicating challenges in the current financial performance [6]. Strategic Developments - CEO Lourenco Goncalves emphasized strong demand from the automotive sector, which is more profitable for the company [3]. - A new MOU with a major global steel producer was disclosed, described as "highly accretive" to shareholders, although details were limited [3][4]. Mining Operations Focus - The company is refocusing on its upstream mining assets due to the renewed importance of rare earths, with indications of potential rare earth minerals at two domestic mining sites [4]. - While the rare earth mineral discovery is speculative, it has generated significant market interest [5]. Investor Considerations - Investors are advised to focus on the steel business rather than the rare earths hype, as the mining operations are primarily to support steelmaking [5]. - Updates regarding the MOU are expected to have a more substantial impact on shareholder value than the rare earths exploration [5].