Producers of metals and other raw materials rose slightly amid mixed earnings reports.
BHP Group shares were more or less flat after the world's largest miner by market value produced less iron ore, copper and steelmaking coal in its first fiscal quarter mostly because of planned maintenance work at its operations. The world's biggest mining company by market value said it produced 63.3 million metric tons of iron ore in the three months through September, down 4% year-over-year and 3% lower than the quarter immediately prior.
Gold futures rose as the dollar weakened, reflecting expectations that inflation will be allowed to run by global central banks.
After languishing for a decade after the Fukushima disaster led Japan and Germany to close nuclear reactors, spot uranium prices have shot to $47 a pound from $32.25 at the start of August, reflecting heavy betting in the market from retail traders.
HeidelbergCement's third-quarter results will likely reflect the cost squeeze already underway at its Indian unit, according to brokerage Davy Research.
Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
10-19-21 1641ET
