Antofagasta shares sink as 2027 copper outlook falls flat
Chilean miner's weaker-than-expected output forecast and rising fuel costs raise concerns over earnings and expansion plans.
Antofagasta, a Chilean copper miner, experienced a significant drop in its shares on Thursday following the release of a less-than-optimistic 2027 copper outlook. The company reduced its production forecast for next year, anticipating a range of 630,000 to 690,000 tonnes, falling short of the initially projected 650,000 to 700,000 tonnes and falling well below BMO Capital Markets' estimate of 703,000 tonnes.
This weaker forecast prompted questions about the pace at which Antofagasta's billions in expansion projects would translate into higher output. Analysts noted that while Antofagasta's 2027 guidance implied a 5% year-over-year growth, it was still 9% below the bank's forecast. The company's cost guidance also saw an upward revision, citing higher diesel prices, which could signal broader cost pressures in the mining industry.
Despite the disappointing outlook, Antofagasta reported a 7% increase in third-quarter copper production, driven by higher output at Los Pelambres. The company's major growth projects at Centinela and Los Pelambres are reportedly on schedule for completion in 2027.
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