Core Viewpoint - Major copper producers are experiencing a rally due to supply disruptions in South America, China's infrastructure stimulus, and increasing demand from electric vehicles and renewable energy sectors, with copper futures up 40% since August [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Mining stocks are rallying, indicating investor expectations for robust industrial activity ahead [2] - Predictions of a prolonged copper shortage are growing, leading to interest in mining stocks [2] Group 2: Company Profiles - **BHP Group**: - Offers copper exposure with a diversified portfolio, including iron ore, petroleum, and coal, generating $51.3 billion in trailing revenue [3] - Stock has increased 52% over the past year, with a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 13x, indicating expected earnings recovery [4] - Provides lower volatility with a beta of 0.66 and a dividend yield of 1.56% [4] - **Freeport-McMoRan**: - Closest to a pure copper bet among major U.S.-listed miners, generating $25.9 billion in trailing revenue [6] - Reported fourth-quarter earnings of $0.47 per share, exceeding estimates by 47%, marking four consecutive quarters of outperformance [6] - Stock has surged 80% over the past year, with EPS estimates expected to rise to $2.67 in 2026 [7] - **Southern Copper**: - Dominates profitability with a 52.4% operating margin and $13.2 billion in trailing revenue [10] - Stock has increased 132% over the past year, with a 39.3% return on equity [11] - Trades at a premium with a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 27x, reflecting strong market demand for quality [11] Group 3: Investment Opportunities - The three companies offer different risk-reward profiles for copper exposure, with Southern Copper leading in profitability, Freeport-McMoRan providing pure-play leverage, and BHP offering diversified stability [12]