Sources available to discuss mining and metals challenges in Q3 2019
- EY Canadian Mining Eye index declines 3% in Q3 2019
- Rebound in gold prices is expected to boost merger prospects
- Nickel prices up 36% on the possibility of Indonesia's unprocessed metal ban
TORONTO, Nov. 15, 2019 /CNW/ - The EY Canadian Mining Eye index faced some headwinds in Q3 2019, declining by 3% compared to a 3% gain in the previous quarter.
Index comparisons |
Q3 2019 |
Q2 2019 |
Canadian Mining Eye index |
-3% |
3% |
UK Mining Eye |
0% |
-7% |
S&P/TSX Composite Metals and Mining index |
2% |
2% |
Major index |
3% |
5% |
"Although a drop, there is some good news — gold prices continue to increase, partially driven by the recent US Federal Reserve rate cut, which is expected to aid prices in the near term," says Jay Patel, EY Canada Mining & Metals Transactions Leader. "Gold's recent rebound should boost merger prospects in the industry as companies look to make use of excess cash, but caution remains as buyers look for stock deals over cash given gold price volatility."
Nickel also increased, up 36% underpinned by Indonesia's proposed ban on unprocessed mineral exports. Other base metals didn't fare as well, with copper and zinc prices down 5%.
"Growing concerns over slowing global growth and trade negotiations continue to impact base metal prices, with copper most affected," says Jeff Swinoga, EY Canada Mining & Metals Co-Leader. "However, the future looks brighter as underlying demand for copper remains strong on the back of tight supply market conditions, and supply deficits should positively impact zinc in the near term."
Beyond slowing global growth, mining and metals companies have identified a number of other business risks and opportunities — including license to operate, future of workforce and digital optimization — that are facing the sector among ongoing disruption.
About EY
EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.
For more information, please visit ey.com/ca. Follow us on Twitter @EYCanada.
EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.
SOURCE EY (Ernst & Young)
The EY Canada Mining & Metals team is available to offer insight into the report's findings. To reach a spokesperson, or for more information, please contact: Victoria McQueen, [email protected], +1 416 943 3141; Dina Elshurafa, [email protected], +1 416 941 1818
Share this article