Analysts Love These 2 Picks-and-Shovels Gold Stocks. Should You Buy Them as Gold Prices Hit New Record Highs?

Company Overview - Vale S.A., founded in 1942 and based in Rio de Janeiro, is a major global mining company with operations across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, primarily known for iron ore, nickel, and copper, while also producing by-products like gold and silver [1] - The company is investing in renewable energy through its energy transition segment, aiming for a more sustainable mining future [1] Market Performance - Vale's stock has surged 90% over the past 52 weeks, reaching a recent high of $17.34, and has increased 112% from an April low of $8.06 [5] - The stock has shown strong momentum with gains of 46% over the past three months and 33% in the last month [5] Financial Performance - In Q3, Vale reported a net profit of $2.69 billion, an 11% year-over-year increase, with net operating revenue climbing 9% annually to $10.4 billion [8] - Adjusted EBITDA rose 21% year-over-year to $4.4 billion, exceeding forecasts [8] - Recurring free cash flow reached $1.6 billion, significantly higher than the previous year, while total free cash flow surged 337% year-over-year to $2.6 billion [9] Operational Highlights - Sales of iron ore, copper, and nickel increased by 5%, 20%, and 6% year-over-year, respectively, with iron ore production hitting its highest quarterly level since 2018 [10] - Capital spending totaled $1.3 billion, aligning with the company's 2025 guidance of $5.4 billion to $5.7 billion [11] Future Outlook - Vale is expected to release its fiscal year results soon, with EPS anticipated to rise 15% year-over-year to $2.09 [12] - Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for Vale, with a consensus indicating potential upside from the current stock price [12]