Consider that in 2050 consumption would increase to 68.2M tonnes/yr. at a 3.4% CAGR, 81.1M tonnes/yr. at a 4.0% CAGR or 93.6M tonnes/yr. at a 4.5% CAGR. Copper is probably the most important industrial metal on the planet.
Adjusted for inflation, the all-time high Cu price breached $6/lb. in the mid 1970’s. In 2011 it was > $5/lb. The 2020s will likely see a new record high price. That’s great news for up-and-coming Cu juniors with (prospective) mines opening this decade — not so good for old, high-cost, low-grade mines nearing end of life.
Therefore, the potential of finding new zones of high-grade mineralization is believed to be very good. And, areas of past production likely have excellent grade material by today’s standards. Needless to say, access to the claims has greatly improved since mules hauled miners & equipment up the mountain.
As the pandemic’s destructive impact abates, few industry sectors are better positioned to flourish than Electric Mobility
— the electrification of all forms of consumer, passenger, industrial & commercial transportation. COVID-19 spurred
several countries, most notably China, to stimulate weak economies with EV subsidies, rebates, tax breaks, etc.
