Mining Capital Markets Gain Momentum as Copper Leads | Ilan Bahar

BMO Capital Markets Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Metals and Mining Ilan Bahar says the mining sector is entering 2026 with one of its strongest capital markets backdrops in years. Speaking with Kitco Mining at the 35th BMO Global Metals, Mining & Critical Minerals Conference, Bahar said this year’s event drew 650 investors and 300 companies, reflecting what he described as a “very, very healthy” environment for precious metals, financing activity, and elevated M&A discussions. He also pointed to the pace and focus with which the U.S. government is leaning into critical minerals as a notable policy shift.Copper remains central to that narrative as AI data centers, electrification, and energy transition demand themes collide with a constrained supply pipeline. “Everybody loves copper, right?” Bahar said, citing strong fundamentals alongside permitting and development challenges. He added that investor participation is broadening beyond traditional resource funds to include retail, hedge funds, and generalists reallocating toward materials.Don’t forget to subscribe to the Kitco Mining & Kitco News YouTube channels to stay up to date on the latest industry news and interviews.Special thanks to our sponsor, First Majestic Silver. To learn more, visit https://firstmajestic.com/00:45 - Key Themes Driving Mining in 202601:57 - Copper Demand, AI Electrification, and Supply Constraints02:54 - Record Attendance and Capital Markets Momentum04:57 - Equity Financing Converts and Streaming Trends07:40 - Mining M&A Activity at Multi-Year Highs09:19 - CEO Transitions and Talent Pipeline Challenges10:58 - New Leadership and Capital Allocation Discipline13:31 - Dividends, Buybacks, and Shareholder Returns15:06 - Precious Metals Strength and 2026 Outlook16:25 - Critical Minerals Strategy and Investment Risks__________________________________________________________________Kitco Mining is dedicated to reporting on the mining industry. Our mandate is to be the top resource for all mining information and news, offering a clear perspective on where the industry is going through breaking news coverage, mining trends, and in-depth reporting, presented with precious, rare earth, base metals, and industry stock prices.Get important precious and base metal updates while on the go with the Kitco Gold LIVE! app - https://applications.kitco.comStay connected with usX - https://x.com/KitcoMiningInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kitcominingLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kitco-miningFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/KitcoMiningConnect with the Kitco Mining anchorsPaul Harris - https://x.com/paulharrisgold For more in-depth mining coverage, visit us here - https://www.kitco.com/miningDisclaimer: Videos are not trading advice, and the views expressed may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc.Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this podcast do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.