This FTSE 100 mining stock doubled in 2020. Is it still worth buying today?

Copper prices are at their highest point in a decade. Zaven Boyrazian analyses a FTSE 100 mining stock that is perfectly positioned to thrive in 2021.

| More on:

The content of this article was relevant at the time of publishing. Circumstances change continuously and caution should therefore be exercised when relying upon any content contained within this article.

When investing, your capital is at risk. The value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you put in.

Read More

The content of this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be, nor does it constitute, any form of personal advice. Investments in a currency other than sterling are exposed to currency exchange risk. Currency exchange rates are constantly changing, which may affect the value of the investment in sterling terms. You could lose money in sterling even if the stock price rises in the currency of origin. Stocks listed on overseas exchanges may be subject to additional dealing and exchange rate charges, and may have other tax implications, and may not provide the same, or any, regulatory protection as in the UK.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More.

Antofagasta (LSE:ANTO) is a FTSE 100 listed mining stock that operates in Chile. Despite Covid-19 causing significant disruptions to the mining industry, its share price has exploded by nearly 120% over the past 12 months. What’s going on? And should I consider adding it to my portfolio? Let’s take a look.

China is causing copper prices to climb

In 2020, copper inventory levels in the London Metal Exchange (LME) fell to their lowest point in the last 15 years. The supply was drastically cut due to mine closures as global lockdowns came into effect.

But recently, China has issued an enormous stimulus package to reboot its economy on a scale not seen since the 2008 financial crisis. As most of China’s economy is driven by industrial manufacturing, the demand for copper has surged, while the supply remains limited. So it’s not surprising that copper prices have risen to over $8,800/tonne – the highest it’s been in nearly 10 years.

But what does this have to do with Antofagasta? Well, if you haven’t guessed already, the FTSE 100 company is a leading supplier of copper. It has four mines in its portfolio that predominantly extract copper from the ground, as well as some other by-products such as gold, molybdenum (used to make steel alloys), and a small amount of silver.

Overall, the business looks like it’s in a powerful position to benefit from the rising copper prices. At least that’s what I think.

The risks of investing in mining stocks

Mining is a hazardous process. It requires highly skilled engineers as well as a considerable level of health and safety precautions. But despite all the protections put in place, accidents do happen, and they can be fatal. While no catastrophic events have occurred since 2012 on Antofagasta’s watch, it remains an ever-present threat to the business.

Accidents trigger significant reputational damage to the firm. But more importantly, if employees feel that their lives are in danger due to improper safety procedures, it’s unlikely they won’t complain. The mining sector is no stranger to worker strikes or even mass walkouts. Both of which disrupt operational performance.

Another risk for this business is its international operations. As the mines are in Chile, all operational costs are paid in Chilean pesos. What’s more, Antofagasta reports its sales and earnings in US dollars. Combined, this exposes the firm to fluctuating exchange rates across multiple currencies that can negatively impact the business’s performance.

The risks of investing in a FTSE 100 mining stock

Antofagasta: a FTSE 100 mining stock worth buying?

Covid-19 has undoubtedly had a significant impact on Antofagasta. For the first three quarters of 2020, metal production fell compared to quarters the previous year. However, in the last three months of 2020, its mines began exceeding normal production levels. Both copper and gold production saw double-digit growth compared to the end of 2019.

By the end of the year, overall copper production decreased by a marginal 4.7%. Not bad, considering the number of disruptions the company faced.

With copper prices on the rise, I believe Antofagasta is on track to continue thriving in 2021. And so, its definitely a stock I’ll be considering for my portfolio.

Should you invest, the value of your investment may rise or fall and your capital is at risk. Before investing, your individual circumstances should be assessed. Consider taking independent financial advice.

Zaven Boyrazian does not own shares in Antofagasta. The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.

More on Investing Articles

Mature couple at the beach
Investing Articles

6 stocks that Fools have been buying!

Our Foolish freelancers are putting their money where their mouths are and buying these stocks in recent weeks.

Read more »

Black woman using loudspeaker to be heard
Investing Articles

I was right about the Barclays share price! Here’s what I think happens next

Jon Smith explains why he still feels the Barclays share price is undervalued and flags up why updates on its…

Read more »

Investing Articles

Where I’d start investing £8,000 in April 2024

Writer Ben McPoland highlights two areas of the stock market that he would target if he were to start investing…

Read more »

View of Tower Bridge in Autumn
Investing Articles

Ahead of the ISA deadline, here are 3 FTSE 100 stocks I’d consider

Jon Smith notes down some FTSE 100 stocks in sectors ranging from property to retail that he thinks could offer…

Read more »

Young female business analyst looking at a graph chart while working from home
Investing Articles

Why I think Rolls-Royce shares will pay a dividend in 2024

Stephen Wright thinks Rolls-Royce shares are about to pay a dividend again. But he isn’t convinced this is something investors…

Read more »

Investing Articles

1 of the best UK shares to consider buying in April

Higher gold prices and a falling share price have put this FTSE 250 stock on Stephen Wright's list of UK…

Read more »

Person holding magnifying glass over important document, reading the small print
Investing Articles

The market is wrong about this FTSE 250 stock. I’m buying it in April

Stephen Wright thinks investors should look past a 49% decline in earnings per share and consider investing in a FTSE…

Read more »

Black father and two young daughters dancing at home
Investing Articles

1 FTSE 250 stock I own, and 1 I’d love to buy

Our writer explains why she’s eyeing up this FTSE 250 growth phenomenon, and may buy more shares in this property…

Read more »