Editor’s take: Mining industry heavyweight, Australian listed BHP Group, is making massive waves with its play for diversified miner, Anglo American’s assets, particularly its lucrative copper projects. The push for Anglo American’s copper assets is because of strong demand for the red metal, which is underpinned by tight supply and fluctuating demand, in particular from the Chinese building and construction sector – which represents 30% of total demand for copper – and coupled with increasing usage for electric vehicles (EV). According to Stuart Chambers, Chairman of Anglo American, copper represents 30% of the company’s total production. Copper is amongst the most-used metals in the world, and experts believe demand for this significant commodity is set to soar in the coming years. At the same time, the supply situation is expected to tighten up. Interestingly, in late April, copper hit $10 000 a ton, a sure sign that market appetite is ramping up quicker than expected.
On the cover
“You can’t touch this” – Brelko stands firm
According to Brelko’s MD, Kenny Padayachee, innovation and technology are in Brelko’s DNA as evidenced in its very first brochure, which illustrates the company’s commitment to enhancing its product range. Investment in Research & development (R&D) is crucial for enhancing the existing product range, developing new products and materials, and improving business efficiencies at plant level, amongst others. “Continuous investment in R&D ensures we remain ahead of the competition. As part of our R&D drive, we have several local and international patents to our name. The Brelko brand and its Keyskirt product-line are trade-marked in 74 countries.
Precious Metals resilient but still facing challenges
Demand for precious metals is expected to be strong overall through 2024/early-2025 driven by interest in gold, which should remain supported by safe-haven demand (i.e. risk hedging) due to the severe compounding geopolitical rifts, as well as persisting financial market concerns as global interest rate trends shift.
Bell Equipment primes for the next decade
JSE-listed Bell Equipment, which has stood the test of time, celebrating 70 years in business this year, is bedding down on growth initiatives for the next decade. CEO, Ashley Bell outlines the company’s strategy which entails cementing its foothold in global markets through a manufacturing hub in the Northern Hemisphere, entering new markets and investing in cutting edge innovations to keep ahead of the competition.
Eastport unveils plans for the company’s stock market debut
After achieving much success in Botswana at the helm of critical metal developer, Giyani, Robin Birchall has returned to Botswana as CEO of Eastport Ventures. Since formally taking the role in February, his focus has been on strategically evaluating the most efficient manner to optimise value for the company and its shareholders, ahead of a planned IPO on a North American Stock Exchange in the coming months.
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