Core Insights - Copper prices have reached historic highs, with LME copper recently exceeding $12,000 per metric ton, marking a 42% year-to-date increase driven by strong demand from AI and constrained supply [1][10] - The market is experiencing a structural shift, with analysts predicting a long-term "supercycle" for copper due to factors like electrification and digital infrastructure [2][7] - Investors are encouraged to consider diversified copper ETFs as a strategic investment for 2026, rather than focusing on individual mining companies [2][12] Copper Demand Drivers - The rapid expansion of AI data centers is significantly increasing copper demand, as copper is essential for high-capacity power lines and cooling systems [4][5] - Wood Mackenzie forecasts a 24% increase in global copper demand by 2035, with AI being a major growth catalyst [5][6] - The demand for copper is also driven by energy transition, grid modernization, and transport electrification, alongside national security and infrastructure initiatives [7] Supply Constraints - Meeting the rising demand will require an additional 8 million tons of new mine capacity and 3.5 million tons of scrap copper, creating opportunities for price increases amid supply shortages [8] - Disruptions at major mines and declining ore grades are expected to lead to a projected 330,000-ton deficit for copper by 2026 [8] Price Forecasts - J.P. Morgan projects LME copper to average $12,500 per ton in Q2 2026 and $12,075 for the full year, citing supply disruptions and AI-driven demand as key factors [9] - Goldman Sachs anticipates a near-term price pullback to an average of $10,710 in the first half of 2026, with a long-term forecast of $15,000 per ton by 2035 [10][11] Copper ETFs - Recommended copper ETFs include: - **Global X Copper Miners ETF (COPX)**: $4.56 billion in assets, up 95.3% YTD, NAV of $72.20 [12][13] - **iShares Copper and Metals Mining ETF (ICOP)**: $171 million in assets, up 79.8% YTD, NAV of $44.42 [14] - **Sprott Copper Miners ETF (COPP)**: $97.4 million in assets, up 71.7% YTD, NAV of $34.93 [15] - **United States Copper ETF (CPER)**: $460.7 million in assets, up 40.1% YTD, NAV of $35.44 [16]

Group 1 - Eni S.p.A. has closed the sale of a 49.99% stake in Eni CCUS Holding to Global Infrastructure Partners, enhancing its growth potential in the carbon capture and storage sector [3] - Eni CCUS Holding operates significant projects in the UK and the Netherlands, targeting a total of 15 million tons of carbon capture annually by 2030 [3] - The company made a significant gas discovery off the eastern coast of Indonesia, with preliminary estimates indicating a gas volume of 600 billion cubic feet, potentially exceeding 1 trillion cubic feet [4] Group 2 - Eni S.p.A. is recognized among the 11 Best Performing Energy Stocks in 2025, indicating strong market performance expectations [1] - The company operates as an integrated energy firm across multiple regions, including Italy, the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa [2]

Core Insights - Clean energy has seen a significant rebound, but Perbak Capital Partners has exited its position in the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, indicating a reassessment of risk-reward dynamics [1][2] Investment Activity - Perbak Capital Partners sold all 482,918 shares of the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN) in Q3, with a transaction value of $6.33 million [2] - The ICLN stake previously accounted for 1.4% of Perbak's 13F assets [3] Performance Metrics - As of the latest report, ICLN shares were priced at $16.45, reflecting a 43% increase over the past year, significantly outperforming the S&P 500, which rose about 17% in the same timeframe [3] - The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF has a total asset under management (AUM) of $1.95 billion and a one-year total return of 50% [4] ETF Overview - ICLN provides targeted access to global companies involved in clean energy production and technology, emphasizing index replication for broad sector exposure [5] - The ETF's investment strategy focuses on tracking approximately 100 global clean energy companies, with at least 80% of assets allocated to index constituents [8] Market Context - The exit from ICLN by Perbak Capital Partners suggests a strategic shift towards broader, cyclical exposures rather than concentrated thematic investments, indicating a disciplined approach to portfolio management [10] - Despite the strong performance of ICLN, it remains a concentrated investment vehicle, sensitive to interest rates and policy changes, making it a tactical but potentially volatile long-term investment [11]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a pro-risk stance and is overweight on U.S. stocks, particularly focusing on the AI theme as a primary driver of investment opportunities [10][45]. Core Insights - The global economy and financial markets are undergoing significant transformation driven by mega forces, especially AI, which is expected to lead to unprecedented capital spending and investment opportunities [10][11]. - The AI buildout is characterized by a front-loaded investment model, where substantial capital is required upfront, while revenue generation is anticipated to occur later, creating a timing mismatch [14][18]. - The report emphasizes the importance of active investing to identify potential winners and losers in the evolving landscape shaped by AI and other mega forces [10][45]. Summary of Sections Investment Environment - The current investment environment is marked by high leverage, increased cost of capital, and concentrated market gains, necessitating significant investment decisions [24][50]. - AI is projected to contribute significantly to U.S. growth, with capital investment expected to triple its historical average in 2026 [25][32]. Themes - **Micro is Macro**: The AI buildout is dominated by a few large companies whose spending has macroeconomic implications, necessitating careful assessment of their financial viability [35]. - **Leveraging Up**: Companies are increasingly leveraging debt to finance the AI buildout, which could lead to vulnerabilities in the financial system [46][51]. - **Diversification Mirage**: Traditional diversification strategies may not provide the expected risk mitigation, as they often represent larger active bets on market drivers [57][60]. Mega Forces - The AI buildout faces constraints, particularly in energy and infrastructure, which could impact the pace and scale of development [67][68]. - Geopolitical fragmentation and the U.S.-China rivalry are reshaping economic and military dynamics, with AI at the center of this competition [77][78]. Future of Finance - The rise of stablecoins is transforming the financial landscape, bridging traditional finance and digital liquidity, with implications for credit provision and monetary control [86][90]. Private Credit - The private credit market is experiencing increased dispersion, with larger, established lenders remaining resilient while smaller entrants face challenges [95][98]. Infrastructure - Infrastructure investments are seen as essential for supporting the AI buildout, with current valuations not reflecting long-term potential [105][111]. Emerging Markets - Emerging markets are expected to benefit from improved credit fundamentals and rising quality in sovereign debt, particularly in India, which is positioned well for long-term growth [114][125].

Core Insights - GE Vernova Inc. (GEV) is leveraging acquisitions to enhance its operations and strengthen its core capabilities in electrification and power grid infrastructure [1][10] - The company is well-positioned to meet rising electricity demand and improve its competitive edge in supplying critical energy infrastructure [1] Acquisitions and Market Expansion - GEV's acquisitions are expanding its market reach by providing access to new customers, regions, and product offerings, thereby increasing revenue opportunities [2] - In October 2025, GEV announced plans to acquire the remaining 50% stake in Prolec GE, which will enhance its Electrification segment and manufacturing capabilities [3] - The acquisition of Alteia in August 2025 integrates advanced AI technology into GEV's GridOS® software platform, strengthening its position in the AI-enabled electrification market [4] - The completion of the acquisition of Woodward's gas turbine combustion parts business in March 2025 improves GEV's supply chain and production reliability, addressing the rising demand from data centers and grid expansion [5] Industry Trends and Strategic Positioning - GEV is aligning its acquisitions with trends in data centers requiring reliable electricity infrastructure and the energy transition towards modern grids and electrification solutions [6] - This strategic alignment positions GEV for sustainable and profitable growth in the evolving energy landscape [6] Earnings Estimates and Stock Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a year-over-year EPS growth of 30.65% for 2025 and 82.06% for 2026 [9] - GEV's stock is trading at a premium with a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 50.13X compared to the industry average of 20.64X [12] - Over the past six months, GEV's shares have increased by 25.3%, outperforming the industry's growth of 13.8% [14]

Core Viewpoint - Copper is experiencing its largest annual price increase in over a decade, influenced by supply disruptions, a weakening U.S. dollar, positive expectations for Chinese economic growth, and significant investments in artificial intelligence [1] Group 1: Price Trends - Three-month copper prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME) increased by 1.5% to $12,405 per metric ton, following a record high of $12,960 [2] - The benchmark copper contract has risen approximately 41% this year, marking its best performance since 2009, when it gained over 140% [3] - In New York, copper prices have surged more than 40% since the beginning of 2025, positioning it for its largest annual increase since 2009, when the contract rose 137.3% [3] Group 2: Demand Drivers - Copper demand is viewed as an indicator of economic health and is essential for the energy transition, electric vehicle manufacturing, power grids, and wind turbines [4] - The electrification process, grid expansion, and the construction of data centers require substantial amounts of copper for wiring, power transmission, and cooling systems [4]

Industry Overview - Rare earth metal stocks have experienced a resurgence in interest after a period of consolidation, with prices showing a decisive technical breakout [1][3][9] - The VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF (REMX) has increased nearly 90% year-to-date, primarily in the second half of the year, indicating strong investor interest [2] Key Drivers of Interest - The renewed interest in rare earth metals is attributed to a combination of factors, including supply chain security and geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, which dominates global mining and refining [5][6] - Demand for rare earths has expanded beyond niche applications, becoming essential for AI infrastructure, electrification, and defense systems, thus reclassifying them as critical resources [7] - Policy support from Western governments, including funding and strategic stockpiling, has further amplified the sector's attractiveness, reducing perceived risks associated with investments [8] Notable Companies Albemarle (ALB) - Albemarle is recognized as a leading diversified company in the rare earth and strategic materials sector, with significant exposure to lithium and rare earth elements [12] - The stock has shown resilience, maintaining strength even during broader market pullbacks, with a key technical support level around $142 [13][14] Sigma Lithium (SGML) - Sigma Lithium is an emerging player focused on low-cost, environmentally responsible production, primarily known for its lithium operations in Brazil [16] - The stock has demonstrated strong performance, breaking out decisively after a consolidation phase, with a key risk marker at $12.25 [17][18] Lithium Americas (Argentina) Corp (LAR) - Lithium Americas represents a more speculative investment option, focusing on lithium resources in Argentina, which ties into long-term electrification and battery storage demand [20] - The stock recently broke out from a trading range, with a critical level to watch at $5.50, indicating potential for higher prices if reclaimed [21][22] Investment Outlook - The rare earth sector is entering a new phase characterized by strategic demand and tight supply, suggesting a selective investment approach [24] - Albemarle offers stability, Sigma Lithium provides growth potential, and Lithium Americas adds higher risk optionality for investors [24]

Core Insights - Baker Hughes Company (BKR) has secured a multi-year contract with Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) to enhance oil and gas production through artificial lift systems [1] - The contract includes the supply of electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) and associated services such as installation, surveillance, and maintenance [1] - Baker Hughes' technologies will enable real-time monitoring and optimization of operations, improving reliability and reducing nonproductive time [2] Scope of Work - The artificial lift systems will be integrated with Baker Hughes' FusionPro intelligent production drive and Leucipa automated field production solution [2] - Prior to this contract, KOC awarded Baker Hughes another contract for advanced wireline and perforation technologies, including Proxima™ advanced logging services [3] Maximizing Value - Technological advancements are allowing for greater value extraction from mature oil and gas resources, with Baker Hughes and KOC leading in this area [4] - Baker Hughes has a successful track record of nearly 20 years in deploying artificial lift systems in Kuwait [4] Long-Standing Presence - Baker Hughes has been operating in Kuwait for several decades and owns a large workshop for testing and failure analysis of artificial lift systems [5] - The company has signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a research and development center in the Ahmadi Innovation Valley, aimed at addressing challenges in the upstream sector and fostering local talent [5] Industry Context - Baker Hughes currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), while other energy sector stocks like Oceaneering International, Subsea7, and FuelCell Energy have higher rankings [6]

Core Viewpoint - Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp. has ordered three advanced LNG carriers, reinforcing its position as the largest US-listed LNG shipping company and aligning with the anticipated growth in LNG demand [1][3][5] Group 1: Company Developments - The company has secured three LNG carriers at Hyundai, with a total shipbuilding cost of $769.5 million, scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029 [2][3] - Currently, the company operates 12 LNG carriers and has nine more on order, with deliveries expected from the third quarter of 2026 to the first quarter of 2029 [3][6] - The company has a total of approximately $3.0 billion in contracted revenue and an average remaining charter duration of 6.9 years, supporting its fleet expansion strategy [3] Group 2: Financial Overview - As of December 29, 2025, the company has paid $386.1 million in advance for its under-construction fleet [4] - The revised capital expenditure schedule indicates a total CAPEX of $2,438.6 million from 2025 to 2029, with significant expenditures planned for newbuild LNG carriers and the gas fleet [7] Group 3: Strategic Insights - The CEO emphasized that the transaction aligns with the company's strategy and objectives, allowing for attractive pricing and terms for high-specification vessels [5] - The company aims to create shareholder value through a disciplined mix of contracted and open vessel capacity, while also securing long-term employment for its newbuilding LNG carriers [3][5]

Core Viewpoint - First Phosphate Corp. has been added to the CSE25 Index, enhancing its visibility among investors and reflecting its strategic position in the North American critical minerals sector [1][2][3] Company Overview - First Phosphate is focused on developing a vertically integrated mine-to-market lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supply chain in North America, targeting markets such as energy storage, data centers, robotics, mobility, and national security [5] - The company's flagship Bégin-Lamarche Property in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, is a rare igneous phosphate resource that yields high-purity phosphate with minimal impurities [5] Strategic Positioning - The inclusion in the CSE25 Index signifies growing recognition of First Phosphate's role in supplying high-purity phosphate for LFP batteries, which are increasingly used in grid-scale energy storage and mobility applications [3] - The company aims to onshore critical battery materials to reduce supply chain risks and enhance North American energy security [3][4] Recent Developments - First Phosphate has successfully produced commercial-grade LFP 18650 battery cells using North American critical minerals, with high-purity phosphoric acid and iron powder sourced from its Bégin-Lamarche property [4]