Metals & mining: Meltdown or opportunity?

Sharp swings across precious metals, especially gold, have thrust the sector into the spotlight, sustaining investor interest and stirring fresh debate over whether a new supercycle is emerging. Amos Fletcher, European Metals & Mining Research Analyst, joins Ronnie Wexler on The Barclays Brief to unpack what’s driving the moves.A powerful mix of macro and structural forces is at work: shifting Fed rate cut expectations, renewed inflation‑hedging flows, dollar softness and accelerating electrification. Copper sits at the centre of the transition, with EV adoption, renewable build‑out and grid expansion driving demand higher even as supply remains constrained.Amos breaks down the mechanics behind the latest volatility and explains how tightening supply across both industrial and precious metals could shape the next leg of price action. He also explores why, despite recent sell‑offs, stronger strategic conviction is still fuelling a rise in big‑ticket M&A across the industry.Get a clear, accessible guide to the forces reshaping metals and mining and why this corner of the market is becoming increasingly difficult for investors to ignore.Listeners can hear more on this topic:​Barclays Brief #8 Critical Minerals: the new oilBarclays Brief #7 US dollar: AI & the capex cycleBarclays Brief #2 Gold: Unpacking the rallyClients can read more on Barclays Live:​Gold - Pausing for thought26 ‘What ifs’ for 2026European Metals & Mining - What's priced in? This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation. Views expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect those of the firm. Any forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties.