BHP Group Ltd.’s $39 billion bid to create a global copper giant risks irking its biggest customer China, where authorities have a history of intervening to stymie or water down international mergers. A takeover of Anglo American Plc. would catapult BHP into the top spot for copper producers, with 10% or more of the world’s output. That could be a red flag for Beijing, which has long bemoaned China’s weak purchasing power against the miners that dominate trade in raw materials. “This may invite close scrutiny from a competition perspective,… Read More Here

Indian mining conglomerate Vedanta reported a 27% decline in fourth-quarter profit, attributed to softer prices of key metals such as aluminium and zinc, coupled with rising finance costs. Led by billionaire Anil Agarwal, Vedanta’s consolidated net profit stood at 13.69 billion rupees (approximately $164 million), missing analysts’ estimates of 21.10 billion rupees, according to LSEG data. Finance costs surged nearly 34%, contributing to increased expenses. Weak domestic zinc and aluminium prices, influenced by subdued global metal prices amid demand uncertainties from China, affected revenues during the January-March period. The zinc… Read More Here

BHP Group has deployed a team of senior executives to South Africa as the world’s largest miner ramps up efforts to win over government officials, regulators and local shareholders, all of whom could yet determine the outcome of its proposed tie-up with rival Anglo American. The executives have already begun conversations with key stakeholders, focusing on explaining the detail of the existing $39-billion proposal – currently back on the drawing board after it was rapidly rejected by its target – and its benefits, according to people familiar with the matter.… Read More Here