Tuzo Phase 3 De Beers and Mountain Province, have made the decision to pause the Tuzo Phase 3 project at the Mine This decision follows a careful assessment of the project's economics considering the prevailing market environment. While the Tuzo Phase 3 project has demonstrated strong potential, current market conditions have prompted the partners to take a measured approach to its development. TSX and OTC: MPVD TORONTO and NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. ("Mountain Pro ...

Market Overview - U.S. stocks are expected to have a volatile start in 2026, while European markets are performing strongly, with the STOXX 600 index up over 4% year-to-date compared to the S&P 500's flat performance [1] - European governments are increasing spending and anticipating economic growth, which may lead to U.S. stocks lagging behind their European counterparts [1] Leading European Stocks - Five European stocks are highlighted for their bullish trends in 2026, each with a Benzinga Edge Momentum Score of at least 90 [2] Rio Tinto - Rio Tinto has a Benzinga Edge Momentum Rating of 90.03 and is a diversified mining company focusing on iron ore, copper, aluminum, diamonds, and gold [3] - The stock has increased over 35% in the last three months, trading at 12.5 times forward earnings and 2.8 times sales, with a 4% dividend supported by a 64% payout ratio [3] ASML Holdings - ASML Holdings, rated 95.44, is a crucial technology company in Europe, known for its EUV machines that cost over $300 million each and cannot be replicated [4] - The company sells approximately 40 units annually, with a backlog exceeding a year of revenue, despite a high valuation of 43 times forward earnings and 14 times sales [5] - ASML shares are in a strong uptrend, with recent volatility helping to stabilize after a nearly 30% gain in January [6] TechnipFMC - TechnipFMC has a Benzinga Edge Momentum Rating of 92.88, with a highly anticipated Q4 2025 earnings release on February 19, following its highest EPS of $0.75 per share in over a decade reported in Q3 2025 [7] Schmid Group - Schmid Group has a Benzinga Edge Momentum Rating of 99.04 [9] Constellium - Constellium, rated 95.10, is a diversified aluminum products manufacturer with a market capitalization of $3 billion [9] - The company received an upgrade from Wells Fargo, raising its price target to $25, indicating over 45% upside potential [10] - CSTM shares have been trending upward since last summer, with a catalyst coming from its Q4 2025 earnings report scheduled for February 18, where analysts expect $1.9 billion in revenue and EPS of $0.32 [11]

Core Insights - The 21st century is heavily reliant on rare earths and critical minerals, with China controlling a significant portion of the supply chain, which poses geopolitical risks [1] - The energy transition is essential for national security, and companies involved in extracting critical minerals are crucial for future infrastructure [2] Company Summaries - **Rio Tinto**: A diversified mining conglomerate with a market cap of $180 billion, producing iron ore, aluminum, copper, and diamonds. It has a profit margin of 19% and generates $18 billion in EBITDA annually. The company is developing the Rincon lithium project and has a forward P/E of 13x, with revenue of $53.7 billion in the last twelve months [3][4] - **Vale**: A Brazilian company with a market cap of $69 billion, producing nickel and copper alongside iron ore. It has a profit margin of 14% and a dividend yield of 17%. Q3 2025 revenue was $10.4 billion, up 7% year over year, with a net income of $2.68 billion [5][6] - **Lithium Americas**: Currently not producing, but developing the Thacker Pass lithium deposit in Nevada. The company has a market cap of $1.95 billion and reported $3.1 million in revenue with a net loss of $197.7 million in Q3 2025. The stock has increased by 103% over the past year [7][8] - **Albemarle**: The largest lithium producer globally, facing a significant drop in gross margins from 42% in 2022 to 1.6% in 2024. Despite a $1.2 billion loss, the company is showing signs of recovery with Q2 2025 gross margins at 14.8%. The market cap is $22 billion, and the stock has risen by 115% over the past year [9][10] - **MP Materials**: The only significant rare earth producer in North America, operating the Mountain Pass mine. Despite a revenue of $53.6 million and a net loss of $41.8 million in Q3 2025, the stock has surged by 225% over the past year, trading at 53x sales. Analysts rate it highly due to potential defense contracts [11][12][13] Investment Outlook - MP Materials offers high-risk, high-reward exposure to rare earths, while Albemarle is positioned for recovery in lithium prices. Lithium Americas represents a speculative investment in U.S. independence, whereas Vale and Rio Tinto provide diversified exposure with lower volatility and dividends [14]

Core Insights - Tectonic Metals has appointed Eira Thomas as Chair of the Board of Directors, bringing her extensive experience in mineral discoveries and value creation to the company [2] Company Overview - Eira Thomas is recognized for her significant contributions to the natural resources sector, particularly in diamond and gold mining [2] - She is known for leading the discovery of the Diavik diamond mine, earning her the title "Queen of Diamonds" [2] - Thomas played a crucial role in the acquisition of Kaminak Gold by Goldcorp for over $0.5 billion, enhancing her reputation in the gold industry [2] - Tony Reda, the President and CEO of Tectonic Metals, has also been instrumental in the success of Kaminak Gold, indicating a strong leadership team [2]

Core Viewpoint - Morgan Stanley maintains an "Overweight" rating for Rio Tinto, indicating confidence in the stock's potential and a positive outlook for the company's future performance [1][5]. Company Overview - Rio Tinto is a leading global mining group focused on finding, mining, and processing mineral resources, operating in segments such as iron ore, aluminum, copper, and diamonds [1]. - The company competes with other mining giants like BHP and Vale, highlighting its significant presence in the industry [1]. Stock Performance - At the time of the announcement, RIO's stock price was $76.02, with a slight increase to $75.99, reflecting a change of 0.17 or 0.22% [2]. - The stock has traded between $75.85 and $76.73 on the day, with a yearly high of $76.99 and a low of $51.67, indicating volatility and potential for growth [3][5]. - RIO's market capitalization is approximately $123.38 billion, underscoring its substantial presence in the mining sector [3]. Trading Activity - The trading volume for RIO is 1,930,571 shares, indicating active investor interest and reflecting the market's perception of the company's value [4].

分组1: Retailer Performance - Costco is perceived positively by consumers, often described as a "themed park for adults," indicating strong brand loyalty and customer satisfaction [2][3] - BJ's faces operational challenges, particularly with technology and delivery services, but remains popular for its discounts and coupon offerings [3][4] 分组2: Consumer Trends - Initial reports from Black Friday indicate strong consumer spending, with high interest in high-value items such as gold, diamonds, and refrigerators [5][6][8] - The Kirkland brand is viewed as a trusted choice among Costco shoppers, contributing to consumer enthusiasm during sales events [7][8] 分组3: Gen Z Shopping Behavior - Gen Z shoppers differ significantly from traditional consumers, primarily engaging with brands through social media platforms like TikTok rather than traditional advertising methods [10][11] - Retailers need to adapt their marketing strategies to effectively reach Gen Z, who are less responsive to conventional advertising [11][12] 分组4: Costco Financials - Costco's October sales increased by 6.6%, with expectations for November sales to provide further insights into performance [13] - The stock has seen a decline of approximately 15% from its all-time highs in February, despite steady growth in sales and a recent increase in membership fees [13][14] 分组5: Investment Strategy - A conservative investment strategy is being considered for Costco, utilizing a neutral to bullish short put vertical option to capitalize on the upcoming earnings report [15][16] - The strategy involves selling a put option at the $880 strike price, with a probability of success exceeding 65% based on historical support levels [17][18]

Core Insights - BHP Group has renewed its interest in acquiring Anglo American despite Anglo's proposed merger with Teck Resources, indicating a shift in strategy after previously walking away from a potential deal [1][2][4] Group 1: BHP's Acquisition Interest - BHP's renewed approach comes less than three weeks before Anglo and Teck shareholders vote on a $53 billion merger, which would be the largest mining industry combination in over a decade [2][7] - BHP's previous attempt to acquire Anglo last year was for $49 billion but fell through due to disagreements over the deal structure, which required Anglo to divest certain niche assets [4][5] - The current proposal from BHP is reportedly simpler and more straightforward than last year's offer [4] Group 2: Anglo American's Market Position - Anglo American has a market capitalization of approximately $41.8 billion, significantly outpacing BHP's market cap of around $132.2 billion since the previous talks ended [5] - The potential merger with Teck could create a larger copper mining complex than Escondida in Chile, positioning the combined entity as the world's largest copper producer with nearly 2 million tonnes of annual production [6] Group 3: Regulatory and Market Considerations - There are doubts surrounding the Anglo-Teck merger due to Canadian government pressure for stronger commitments to jobs at the proposed Vancouver headquarters [7] - The merger still requires approval from regulators in the US, Canada, and China, adding complexity to the situation [7]

Core Viewpoint - Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. has entered into an amending agreement with Dunebridge Worldwide Ltd. to modify terms of its CAD 33 million working capital facility, extending the repayment period and allowing access to additional funds during a critical period for the company [1][2][3]. Group 1: Amending Agreement Details - The period for advances against the working capital facility is extended from November 13, 2025, to March 31, 2026 [2]. - Repayment mechanics involving direct payment to Dunebridge from diamond proceeds are deferred until February 28, 2026 [2]. - The principal repayment date for the working capital facility is extended from December 31, 2025, to March 31, 2026 [2]. Group 2: Management Commentary - The President and CEO of the company stated that the amendments provide access to additional funds during a crucial period before the working capital is expected to improve with sales from higher-grade material [3]. Group 3: Approval Process - The Amending Agreement was reviewed and recommended by a special committee of independent directors due to the company's financial condition [4]. - The Board unanimously approved the Amending Agreement, with two members abstaining due to conflicts of interest [5]. Group 4: Related Party Transactions - Vertigol Unlimited Company holds over 35% of the company's shares and is considered a related party, as is Dunebridge, which is also owned by the same ultimate beneficial owner [6]. - The company is relying on exemptions from formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements due to its financial difficulties [7]. Group 5: Company Overview - Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. holds a 49% stake in the Gahcho Kué mine in Canada and controls over 96,000 hectares of mineral claims surrounding the mine [8].

Core Viewpoint - Citigroup maintains a Neutral rating for Rio Tinto Ltd, raising the price target, indicating a positive outlook for the company's future performance [2][6] Production and Earnings - Rio Tinto is expected to increase its copper production by about 20% over the next three years, driven by the ramp-up at the Oyu Tolgoi mine, which will also enhance the production of gold and silver by-products [3][6] - The contribution of iron ore to group earnings is projected to decrease from 81% in 2023 to 48% by 2026, reflecting the company's strategic diversification into copper and other commodities [4][6] Stock Performance - The current stock price of Rio Tinto is $70.49, showing a slight decrease of 0.20% from the previous day, with a market capitalization of approximately $114.45 billion [5]

Core Viewpoint - Vast Resources plc is progressing with a rough stone tender that includes a total of 126,677.50 carats, aiming to maximize revenues for shareholders through phased sales of higher quality stones [2][3]. Group 1: Tender Update - The initial parcel for the rough stone tender consists of 126,677.50 carats, which includes 12,591.77 carats of mixed-quality gem stones, 63,091.75 carats of low-grade gem stones, and 50,993.98 carats of industrial stones [2]. - The company plans to sell the remaining higher quality stones in a phased manner to maximize revenue [3]. Group 2: Company Overview - Vast Resources plc is an AIM quoted mining company with operations in Romania, Tajikistan, and Zimbabwe [6]. - In Romania, the company is focused on advancing high-quality projects, including the Baita Plai Polymetallic Mine, which has a JORC compliant resource report indicating a mine production life of approximately 3-4 years and a total mineral resource of 15,695 tonnes copper equivalent [7]. - The company also owns the Manaila Polymetallic Mine and is working to bring it back into production [8]. - In Tajikistan, Vast has a joint venture for the Takob Mine, which will provide a 12.25 percent royalty on sales of non-ferrous concentrate [10]. - Additionally, Vast is contracted to manage the Aprelevka gold mines, aiming to increase production towards historical peak levels of approximately 27,000 ounces of gold and 250,000 ounces of silver per year [11].