Beaver Creek: Mining’s next generation takes the wheel

Mining is transitioning into a new era as experienced founders and dealmakers retire, handing the reins to a new generation of executives. At the Precious Metals Summit in Beaver Creek, Colorado, Elemental Royalty CEO Frederick Bell, First Majestic Silver president Mani Alkhafaji, and Heliostar Metals CEO Charles Funk discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Panel moderator Paul Harris noted that few CEOs make a lasting impact, highlighting the importance of the elite teams who drive progress. Investors are now looking for the next generation to turn early successes into durable companies, not just accumulate assets. Gold's recent retreat puts a new emphasis on execution and returns per share.

Heliostar Metals CEO Charles Funk designed his company to withstand commodity cycles, having previously shifted from exploration to building mines. Heliostar is acquiring La Colorada and San Agustin mines and plans to start gold production by the end of 2028. Elemental Royalty CEO Frederick Bell has expanded his company's acquisition size to $290 million, enabling it to retain more upside from deals.

First Majestic Silver's Mani Alkhafaji has been working with CEO Keith Neumeyer for 14 years, contributing to the company's succession planning and recent $350 million financing through convertible notes.