Www.Ndtvprofit.Com·2026-01-24 10:49Core Viewpoint - Global mining stocks are experiencing a significant surge in demand due to soaring metals prices and tight supplies, indicating a potential new supercycle in the sector [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - MSCI's Metals and Mining Index has gained nearly 90% since the start of 2025, outperforming sectors like semiconductors and global banks [1][2]. - Copper prices have surged by 50% during the same period, with analysts also optimistic about other minerals such as aluminum, silver, nickel, and platinum [2]. Group 2: Investment Sentiment - Fund managers are increasingly favoring mining stocks, with European fund managers reporting a net 26% overweight in the sector, the highest in four years [4]. - The sector is viewed as a crucial portfolio anchor, benefiting from changing monetary policies and geopolitical volatility [3]. Group 3: Valuation and M&A Activity - The Stoxx 600 Basic Resources index is trading at a forward price-to-book ratio of approximately 0.47, representing a 20% discount to its long-term average [5]. - There is a trend towards mergers and acquisitions in the mining sector, with notable transactions such as Anglo American's acquisition of Teck Resources and potential mergers involving Rio Tinto and Glencore [6]. Group 4: Supply Dynamics and Future Outlook - The mining sector is facing supply deficits, which is expected to support higher commodity prices and valuation multiples [7]. - Major miners like BHP Group and Rio Tinto still rely heavily on iron ore, but there is a shift towards copper-focused M&A due to the decline of the last China-led supercycle [8]. Group 5: Cautionary Perspectives - Some analysts express caution regarding the rapid price increases in mining stocks, with Bank of America downgrading the sector to underweight in Europe due to potential economic risks [9]. - Concerns about non-linear price movements in assets have led to a more cautious approach, although the miners are considered inexpensive [10].