Member Login
  1. Category
    2. /
  2. Investing
    3. /
  3. Metals and Mining Stocks
    4. /

Metals and Mining Stocks

What are mining and mineral stocks?

Mining and mineral stocks represent partial ownership in companies that find, extract, and process minerals and materials. The materials sector makes up a large portion of Canadian stocks, with the TSX having more mining stocks than any other market in the world. Here are some minerals these companies extract: 

  • Precious metals: gold, silver, platinum, palladium 
  • Industrial metals: iron, ore, zinc, cobalt, lithium, nickel, copper, aluminum 
  • Construction materials: sand, crushed stone, limestone
  • Energy materials: coal, oil sands, uranium
  • Fertilizers: boron, potash, phosphate 

How can you find good mining stocks?

1. Know the mining industry 

The mining industry is fairly complex. Not only do mining companies operate in a manner distinct from any other sector — they literally dig into the ground, not sit in swivel chairs — but also the vocabulary and industry terms can be complex, too. 

From the mining process to machinery to the minerals themselves, mining investors will do well to know exactly what a mining company does before buying its stocks. 

2. Analyze its financial strength 

Investors should find mining companies that can withstand economic downturns and recessions. Two factors that will help you assess a mining company’s finances are production costs and balance sheets. 

In general, a mining company shouldn’t be dishing out too much of its revenues to cover production. If it does, it might not remain profitable during tough economic times. The lower its operation costs, the more value mining companies can return to its investors. 

Similarly, a good mining company won’t take out enormous amounts of debt to cover expansion or production. It has a strong balance sheet, meaning it has cash on hand, as well as a capacity to borrow if it needs to. With strong finances, a good mining company will have more flexibility and strength to withstand downturns. 

3. Check here for more updates 

Finally, to help you stay up-to-date on the mining and mineral industry, check here for our writers’ stock analyses .With the mining industry changing as much as it has, our writers will help you choose carefully, as well as teach you how to think about stocks. 

Top Articles

Metals and Mining Stocks

B2Gold Stock: How High Could it Go in 2023?  

| Daniel Da Costa

After struggling through 2022 while gold stocks were out of favour, B2Gold has some significant upside in 2023 as interest…

Read more »

A worker wears a hard hat outside a mining operation.
Metals and Mining Stocks

3 Mining Stocks That Are Too Cheap to Ignore

| Chris MacDonald

These three mining stocks are great ways for long-term investors to gain exposure to gold as well as hedge against…

Read more »

Dividend Stocks

TFSA Investors: Why You Should Invest Your Room ASAP With These 3 Stocks

| Adam Othman

Choosing the right TFSA stocks for your portfolio might take some time. But with the right choices, you can stick…

Read more »

People walk into a dark underground mine.
Metals and Mining Stocks

These 2 Stocks Have a Lot of Risk But Their Upside Could be Huge

| Demetris Afxentiou

Looking for an alternative option for your portfolio? These two stocks have a lot of risk now, but their long-term…

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Better Buy: Newmont or Barrick Gold Stock?

| Kay Ng

If you think better days are ahead for gold miners, consider exploring gold stocks Newmont and Barrick Gold.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Should You Invest in TSX Mining Stocks Right Now?

| Brian Paradza, CFA

A key TSX mining index has gained 16% so far this quarter. Newmont stock (TSX:NGT) could be a rewarding bet…

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Could Investing in Teck Stock Help Make You a Millionaire?

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

On the surface, Teck (TSX:TECK.B) stock doesn't look all that exciting. But you're going to change your tune after what…

Read more »

Dividend Stocks

3 Growth Stocks You Can Buy Right Now with Less Than $100

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Capital of less than $100 is enough to buy one of these three promising growth stocks that don't belong to…

Read more »

Recent Metals and Mining Stocks News

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Tuesday, July 11

| Jitendra Parashar

The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s latest short-term outlook report might keep TSX energy stocks volatile today.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

This Canadian Mining Stock Is a Hidden Gem 

| Puja Tayal

Mining stocks can be a gem if the metals they mine are scarce and in demand. This one Canadian mining…

Read more »

Nickel ore is mined from the ground.
Metals and Mining Stocks

2 Canadian Mining Stocks to Watch in July 2023

| Adam Othman

Consider adding these two Canadian mining stocks to your self-directed portfolio amid rising inflation and global recession fears.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Thursday, July 6

| Jitendra Parashar

Several key economic releases from the U.S. market could keep TSX stocks volatile today.

Read more »

Stocks for Beginners

Why Gold Stocks Could Be Like Investing in Cryptocurrency, in a Bad Way

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

Gold prices are going up, and the market is going down. But honestly, gold could be as volatile as cryptocurrency…

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Barrick Gold Stock and the Glitter of Safe Havens in Uncertain Times

| Aditya Raghunath

Investors bullish on gold can consider investing in mining companies such as Barrick Gold in 2023.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Thursday, June 29

| Jitendra Parashar

TSX investors will closely monitor the U.S. GDP and pending home sales numbers today.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Franco-Nevada Stock: Why Gold Royalties Could Shine Bright in 2023

| Chris MacDonald

Here's why Franco-Nevada stock could be among the best picks for investors looking for defensive exposure in 2023.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Is This Canadian Gold Mining Stock a Hidden Gem?

| Chris MacDonald

Here's why Barrick Gold (TSX:ABX) could be a hidden gem among the various mining stocks in the market right now.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

What’s Next for Precious Metals Stocks? 

| Puja Tayal

Are you curious about bearish momentum of precious metal stocks in May, despite weak macros? Here’s what you should do.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Agnico Eagle Mines: A Safe Bet in a Wobbly Market?

| Karen Thomas, MSc, CFA

Soaring revenue, cash flow, and dividends show that Agnico is not only safe, but also growing very rapidly and profitably.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Friday, June 23

| Jitendra Parashar

The TSX index seems on track to end this week with over 2% losses.

Read more »

Nickel ore is mined from the ground.
Metals and Mining Stocks

This Canadian Mining Stock Is a Hidden Gem

| Ambrose O'Callaghan

Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. (TSX:IVN) is a Canadian mining stock that looks underrated, as we kick off the 2023 summer season.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Wednesday, June 21

| Jitendra Parashar

Besides Canada’s key retail sales data, the U.S. Fed chair Jerome Powell’s testimony will remain on TSX investors radar today.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Is it the Right Time to Invest in Gold Stocks?

| Karen Thomas, MSc, CFA

Gold prices have weakened recently, sending gold stocks like Barrick lower and creating an opportunity to buy.

Read more »

Safety helmets and gloves hang from a rack on a mining site.
Metals and Mining Stocks

Better TSX Dividend Stock: Nutrien or Barrick Gold?

| Joey Frenette

Barrick Gold (TSX:ABX) stock is getting way too cheap to ignore after its latest slump.

Read more »

Super sized rock trucks take a load of platinum rich rock into the crusher.
Metals and Mining Stocks

The Hottest Canadian Mining Stocks to Watch in June 2023

| Adam Othman

Take a closer look at these two stocks if you’re searching for high-quality Canadian mining stocks to add to your…

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Tuesday, June 20

| Jitendra Parashar

TSX stocks may remain volatile in the next few sessions ahead of the U.S. Fed chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony…

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Monday, June 19

| Jitendra Parashar

Most TSX stocks could remain choppy today, as the U.S. stock markets remain closed for Juneteenth.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Friday, June 16

| Jitendra Parashar

TSX stocks could remain volatile in the near term, as concerns about weakening U.S. manufacturing activity and a looming recession…

Read more »

Super sized rock trucks take a load of platinum rich rock into the crusher.
Metals and Mining Stocks

First Quantum Minerals: A Copper-Clad Investment Opportunity?

| Jitendra Parashar

Here are some key factors why First Quantum Minerals could be a great TSX stock to buy in 2023 and…

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Wednesday, May 24

| Jitendra Parashar

TSX investors will focus on Canadian bank earnings, U.S. debt ceiling talks progress, and Fed’s meeting minutes today.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Franco-Nevada Stock: A Golden Opportunity for Precious Metal Investors?

| Aditya Raghunath

Franco-Nevada is a top TSX stock that has surged 1,000% in the last 15 years. But is it a good…

Read more »

Nuclear power station cooling tower
Metals and Mining Stocks

Cameco’s Nuclear Renaissance: How Uranium Could Power Your Portfolio

| Tony Dong, MSc, CETF®

Cameco is a popular Canadian stock for uranium exposure. Here's how I'd take it to the next level.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

3 Stocks That Can Supercharge Your TFSA in 2023

| Aditya Raghunath

Maximize your TFSA growth in 2023 with three high-potential stocks. Unleash the power of tax-free investing and accelerate your wealth.

Read more »

Safety helmets and gloves hang from a rack on a mining site.
Metals and Mining Stocks

TFSA: Investing in These 3 Mining Stocks Unlocks Real Benefits

| Aditya Raghunath

TSX investors can stash their TFSA portfolio with quality mining stocks such as Lithium Americas and Barrick Gold right now.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Friday, May 19

| Jitendra Parashar

Besides Canadian retail sales, U.S. debt ceiling negotiations and Fed chair Jerome Powell’s comments will remain on TSX investors’ radar…

Read more »

Super sized rock trucks take a load of platinum rich rock into the crusher.
Energy Stocks

Better Buy: Cameco Stock or NexGen Energy Stock?

| Brian Paradza, CFA

Cameco stock may outperform as NexGen Energy stock falls short on supply contract portfolios, industry experience, revenue and cash flow…

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Thursday, May 18

| Jitendra Parashar

The volatility in TSX stocks may remain intact, as investors closely watch the progress in the U.S. debt limit talks.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

2 Top Lithium Stocks to Invest in a Hot Commodity

| Aditya Raghunath

Seize the opportunity in the booming lithium market with these two top stocks. Invest in a hot commodity and unlock…

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Better Buy: Franco-Nevada or Wheaton Precious Metals Stock?

| Brian Paradza, CFA

Franco-Nevada stock provides better cash flow diversification, but there's no oil blemish to Wheaton Precious Metals’ glitter.

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Friday, May 12

| Jitendra Parashar

The main TSX index seems on track to end the third consecutive week in red territory.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Can the Rally in Canadian Gold Stocks Last?

| Joey Frenette

Barrick Gold (TSX:ABX) stock is one of the best ways to play the recent rise in gold and silver.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Materials in Demand: The Best Stocks to Buy Today

| Brian Paradza, CFA

Here's why Russel Metals stock and another Canadian materials stock are flying high, and could make investors richer.

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Barrick Gold Shines: How to Capitalize on the Precious Metals Market

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

As gold prices continue to rise, should investors consider one of the world's largest gold miners? Or is Barrick stock…

Read more »

People walk into a dark underground mine.
Metals and Mining Stocks

A Canadian Mining Stock Unearthing Profits for Investors

| Joey Frenette

Barrick Gold (TSX:ABX) stock has a nice yield and strong momentum behind it after gold's recent run!

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

This Oversold Stock Is a Must-Buy for Investors on the TSX Today

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

This oversold stock remains in value territory, with prices dropping and costs rising. But long-term investors should see it as…

Read more »

Metals and Mining Stocks

Is Teck Stock a Buy Before a Proposed Stock Split, or is a Takeover Imminent?

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

Teck stock has everyone fighting over the company, including shareholders. So what's in store for this company's future?

Read more »

Medicinal research is conducted on cannabis.
Metals and Mining Stocks

2 Canadian Stocks That Are Simply Too Cheap to Avoid

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

These two Canadian stocks have sunk lower and lower, which is why now could be the right time for long-term…

Read more »

tsx today
Metals and Mining Stocks

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Thursday, April 27

| Jitendra Parashar

TSX stocks may remain volatile, as investors continue to closely monitor the corporate results.

Read more »

Frequently Asked Questions

Mining and mineral stocks do pose some risks investors should be aware of. 

First off, the industry is highly cyclical, meaning it rises and falls with the overall economy. When the economy is doing fairly well, the market demands more minerals: buildings are going up, consumers are buying more gold, construction is consistent. When the economy falls, however, demand for minerals tends to fall with it. The cyclical nature of energy stocks makes them more volatile than, say, utilities and consumer staples. 

Another risk investors should take note of is expansion. Building mines is very expensive, much more expensive than building a new corporate headquarters. In the past, mines have expanded their enterprises during strong periods of economic growth, only to launch when the economy begins to sink. 

For both these reasons, it’s vital to analyze a mining company’s finances. If the company is saddled with debt, that could be an indicator it’s overextending itself, despite supposed growth. 

Mining stocks can be a great investment, however, there are some things to keep in mind before investing.

Mining stocks can be very volatile depending on economic conditions. That being said, the best Canadian mining companies have been able to generate good profit regardless of economic conditions.