The metals sector is heading into a year defined by disruption, from trade tensions and surplus supply to the electrification boom, carbon policy shifts, and the global race for critical minerals. Each of these forces is reshaping supply chains, investment flows, and competitive positioning. Our Metals Market Movers 2026 series takes you deep into the developments that will matter most this year and beyond.
Iron ore industry challenges Simandou’s ‘Pilbara killer’ status
Iron ore markets have been dominated by Australia’s Pilbara supplies for years, but new pressures, including rising costs, logistical hurdles, and competition from West African projects, are testing that dominance. Explore what it means for pricing, trade flows, and future investment decisions.
Iron ore industry challenges Simandou's 'Pilbara killer' status | S&P Global
Metals sector braces for high-stakes USMCA trade talks
The upcoming USMCA renegotiations have the potential to recalibrate North American metals trade. With tariffs, content rules, and supply chain resiliency at stake, this article breaks down the key issues on the table and what producers and buyers need to watch.
Metals sector braces for high-stakes USMCA trade talks | S&P Global
Europe’s steel industry faces its 2026 reckoning with CBAM
As the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) takes fuller effect, Europe’s steelmakers are confronting not just compliance costs but questions about competitiveness. This analysis shows how CBAM could reshape production strategies and global trade partnerships.
Europe's steel industry faces its 2026 reckoning with CBAM | S&P Global
Battery storage to drive lithium demand growth globally
Lithium’s role at the heart of the energy transition is accelerating faster than most models predicted. This story explores how surging demand for battery storage across electric vehicles and grid-scale systems is driving structural changes in lithium markets worldwide.
Battery storage to drive lithium demand growth globally | S&P Global
US, EU to further intensify critical mineral investments as China tightens hold
Competition for critical minerals isn’t just a supply story, it’s a strategic one. With new policy commitments and capital flows into North America and Europe, this piece explains how the West is responding as China consolidates its influence over key mineral supply chains.
US, EU to further intensify critical mineral investments as China tightens hold | S&P Global
Global steel industry battles surplus supply, protectionism
Steel markets are grappling with both excess capacity and rising protectionist measures across key regions. This article examines how producers are reacting to oversupply pressures, and what it means for prices, trade disputes, and investment decisions in 2026.
Global steel industry battles surplus supply, protectionism | S&P Global
If you want to understand where metals markets are heading, and why, this series is essential reading.