Copper Transforms from Weak to Top-Performing Metal, Driven by Supply Concerns and Economic Outlook

Venezuela's ruling party-controlled National Assembly on Thursday approved a mining bill expected to open the sector to private and overseas investment, after the US eased restrictions on the country to stimulate external capital investment in its struggling economy.The bill repealed the 1999 and 2015 mining regulations, allowing domestic, overseas, and state-owned and private companies or consortia to mine gold and "strategic minerals." The maximum term for concessions is 30 years, but can be extended by up to two 10-year periods.Under the bill, mineral resources remain state property, disputes can be resolved through arbitration, and a royalty tax of 13% of the total value of minerals is levie.

Argentine lawmakers passed a government-backed reform bill aimed at promoting mining investment in glacier regions. Environmentalists and scientists said the move would weaken related protections and threaten water security.The lower house passed the reform bill with 137 votes in favor, 111 against, and 3 abstentions. The bill took effect immediately upon publication in the official gazette.The reform, driven by the libertarian government of Javier Milei, sparked controversy for allowing provinces to set their own protection standards for glaciers and periglacial areas. Critics said the shift could weaken protections for high-altitude glacial landscapes that serve as vital freshwater reserves.