In this article, we will take a look at some of the best metal stocks to buy according to billionaires.
When investing in the best metal stocks, the stakes are high, and the potential rewards are even higher. Metals power the modern economy, from the foundations of skyscrapers to the circuits in your smartphone. For savvy investors, these commodities offer a strategic opportunity to capitalize on global demand, fluctuating prices, and billionaire-backed bets that shape the future of the industry.
As of March 2025, the U.S. stock market has been riding a wave of volatility, with the broader market reaching a record high of 6,152.87 in February, marking a 3.49% increase year-to-date. However, the index suffered a decline in March. Meanwhile, copper prices have skyrocketed to an unprecedented $5.24 per pound, largely driven by looming 25% tariffs on imports and China’s aggressive economic stimulus measures. Investors have been quick to respond, driving up the stock prices of major mining giants.
The precious metals sector has been equally dynamic. Gold futures are climbing 14%, and analysts are projecting further earnings growth of 17% in 2025 and 16% in 2026.
One of the strongest signals in the metals market comes from billionaire investors. Heavyweights like Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, have a strong presence in the metals sector, with a strategic focus on silver and gold mining companies rather than direct gold ownership. Beyond U.S. borders, Buffett’s investment strategy has extended into Japan’s massive trading conglomerates. These firms operate across multiple industries, with significant stakes in natural resources and metals, highlighting the global nature of the metals market.
The rise of rare metals has also drawn significant interest, with billionaires like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos funneling $537 million into Africa’s rare metals sector, as reported by Business Insider. As the world shifts toward renewable energy and advanced technology, the demand for critical minerals is soaring, promising new wealth for those who control these resources.
With 40% of investors planning to increase their exposure to gold and other precious metals in the next 12 months, as highlighted by the UBS Billionaire Ambitions Report 2024, the metals and mining sector remains a dynamic and lucrative space. While tech and banking CEOs dominate the headlines, eight of the world’s 100 richest individuals on the Forbes Billionaires List have built their fortunes in metals and mining. Understanding the factors driving these investments is key to making informed decisions.
Deloitte’s Tracking the Trends 2025 Report highlighted the key trends in the industry. Specifically, it underscores the power of inclusive leadership in driving innovation and problem-solving in the metals industry—critical in today’s fast-evolving economic, social, and environmental landscape. Companies that embrace technology, enhance safety, and stay adaptable position themselves for sustainable growth.
Meanwhile, AI is revolutionizing mineral exploration, optimizing geoscience data to accelerate target identification, slash costs, and streamline project timelines—essential for mitigating metal shortages.
On the revenue side, PwC’s Mine Report revealed that despite increased production, the world’s top 40 miners saw revenues drop over 7% in 2024 due to falling commodity prices and rising costs. KPMG’s 2024 industry index shows modest gains despite geopolitical turbulence and macroeconomic pressures. Key challenges? Tech investment, ecosystem collaboration, talent acquisition, and funding.
On the billionaire front, metals and mining remain a lucrative—albeit volatile—business. The world’s richest investors play long games, with Warren Buffett notably favoring silver over gold due to its industrial and medical applications. As always, informed strategies separate winners from the rest.
In the next section, we’ll delve into the methodology used to identify the best metal stocks to buy, backed by billionaire insights and industry trends.
Our Methodology
We used Insider Monkey’s exclusive database of billionaire stock holdings to arrive at our list of best metal stocks to buy according to billionaires. We selected the 10 best stocks to buy based on the highest number of billionaire investors, updated as of Q4 2024. For the stocks with the same number of billionaire holdings, we have used the total dollar value of billionaire holdings as a secondary metric to rank the stocks. Billionaires are founders or managers of some of the world’s leading hedge funds and companies.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
A close-up of a hand placing a block of gold into a safe.
10. Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC)
Number of Billionaires: 10
Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC) is a Canada-based senior gold mining company with a diverse portfolio of mines and projects across the United States, Canada, Brazil, Chile, and Mauritania. Kinross focuses on gold extraction and processing, aiming to deliver value through operational excellence and responsible mining practices.
In 2024, Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC) reported a record free cash flow exceeding $1.3 billion, highlighting its strong financial performance. However, projections for 2025 indicate a decrease in gold production from 2.13 million ounces to approximately 2.0 million ounces, accompanied by increased production costs.
In February 2025, Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC) acquired 15.41 million common shares of Relevant Gold Corp. for C$ 4.623 million, resulting in a 19.9% ownership stake. The company has agreed not to exercise its warrants if doing so would increase its ownership beyond 20% without obtaining disinterested shareholder approval. Additionally, in March 2025, Kinross announced the renewal of its normal course issuer bid (NCIB), demonstrating a commitment to enhancing shareholder returns through share buybacks and quarterly dividends.
The gold mining sector has experienced a surge due to rising gold prices, with spot gold nearing $3,056 per ounce in March 2025, making Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC) a potential best metal stock to invest in. Analyst opinions are mixed; for instance, in February, Bank of America adjusted its price target for Kinross to $9.25 from $10.25, citing a cautious outlook on future costs. As of 28th March, 22 analyst ratings recommend a Buy rating with a price target, suggesting an upside potential of 32.23%.
9. Vale S.A. (NYSE:VALE)
Number of Billionaires: 10
Vale S.A. (NYSE:VALE) is a Brazilian multinational corporation primarily engaged in the production and export of iron ore, iron ore pellets, nickel, and copper. As one of the world’s largest mining companies, Vale plays a crucial role in the global supply chain for these essential commodities, serving industries ranging from steel manufacturing to electronics.
Vale S.A. (NYSE:VALE) reported a $694 million loss in Q4 2024, primarily due to impairments totaling $1.94 billion on its Canadian nickel operations. Despite this setback, the company announced dividends of 2.14 reais per share and initiated a share buyback program for up to 120 million shares, signaling a commitment to shareholder value. Additionally, it achieved its highest annual iron ore output since 2018, producing nearly 328 million metric tons in 2024, marking a 2% increase from the previous year.
Analysts maintain a positive outlook on Vale S.A. (NYSE:VALE). RBC recently raised its price target from $11.80 to $12, maintaining an “Outperform” rating. The consensus among analysts is an “Overweight” rating, with a median price target of $12.48, suggesting potential upside from current levels.
Vale’s strategic initiatives include plans to double its copper production over the next decade, aligning with the growing demand for minerals essential to the clean energy transition. The company also announced a significant $12.2 billion investment in its Carajás complex, reflecting its commitment to expanding operations and strengthening its market position.
8. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM)
Number of Billionaires: 11
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) is a Canadian-based senior gold mining company and the third-largest gold producer globally. The company operates mines in Canada, Australia, Finland, and Mexico and maintains a pipeline of high-quality exploration and development projects.
In February 2025, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) reported record annual gold production and free cash flow for the full year of 2024. The company also provided an updated three-year guidance, indicating stable production levels and ongoing optimization of existing mines.
In March 2025, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) announced a strategic investment in Collective Mining Ltd., subscribing for approximately 4.74 million common shares for C$11.00 per share, totaling C$52.16 million. This investment aligns with Agnico Eagle’s strategy to expand its presence in high-quality exploration projects. Additionally, it has agreed to subscribe to 20,770,000 units of Cartier Resources Inc.
The recent surge in gold prices has positively impacted Canadian gold mining stocks, with Agnico Eagle’s stock value rising by 38% year-to-date, reflecting a market capitalization of $53.51 billion.
Analysts hold a consensus Buy opinion on Agnico Eagle’s stock, citing its strong earnings growth, record production, and free cash flow. With 88% of 17 analysts recommending a Buy, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) is positioned well as one of the best metal stocks to invest to tap into the gold sector.
7. Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE)
Number of Billionaires: 12
Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) is North America’s largest and most diversified steel and steel products company, as well as the region’s largest recycler. Nucor products serve various industries, such as automotive, construction, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) reported net earnings of $1.22 per diluted share in Q4 2024. However, the company has guided Q1 2025, anticipating adjusted earnings between $0.50 and $0.60 per diluted share. This projection reflects challenges such as lower average selling prices in the steel products segment.
Despite these near-term challenges, analysts remain optimistic about Nucor’s prospects. UBS has upgraded Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) to a “Buy” rating, citing the positive impact of the 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports implemented by President Trump’s administration. These tariffs have led to increased steel prices, which are expected to bolster Nucor’s earnings. U.S. steel prices have climbed sharply this year, with benchmark hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices rising over 25%. As steel prices continue to strengthen, companies like Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) are well-positioned to benefit.
As of March 28, 2025, Nucor’s stock is trading at $123.01, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous close. The average price target from 16 ratings stands at $154.70, suggesting a 28.05% upside.
6. Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:RGLD)
Number of Billionaires: 12
Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:RGLD) is a leading precious metals streaming and royalty company based in Denver, Colorado. The company specializes in acquiring and managing precious metal streams and royalties, providing investors with exposure to precious metals without the risks associated with traditional mining operations. Royal Gold’s portfolio includes interests in approximately 175 properties across five continents, encompassing 42 producing mines and 18 development-stage projects.
In March 2025, Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:RGLD) provided its sales guidance for the year, projecting gold sales between 210,000 and 230,000 ounces, silver sales ranging from 2.7 to 3.3 million ounces, and copper sales between 13.5 to 16.0 million pounds.
The stock has surged up to 58% from its 2024 lows, reflecting a bullish trend in the gold market. Earnings have spiked by 69% over the last three quarters, and analysts project further earnings growth of 17% in 2025 and 16% in 2026. Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:RGLD) boasts an IBD Composite Rating of 98 and has consistently raised its dividend for 16 consecutive years, currently offering a yield of 1.2%.
As of March 28, 2025, Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:RGLD)’s stock is trading at $161.30. Analysts are optimistic about Royal Gold’s prospects as one of the best metal stocks to buy. 73% of 11 analyst ratings hold a Buy rating on the stock, as of March 28.
5. Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ:STLD)
Number of Billionaires: 12
A leading U.S. steel producer and metal recycler, operating in segments such as steel production, metals recycling, and steel fabrication, Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ:STLD), serves diverse industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
The total revenue in 2024 stood at $17.54 billion, a decrease of 6.68% since last year. However, in the first quarter of 2025, Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ:STLD) anticipates stronger profitability in its steel operations compared to the previous quarter. This expectation is based on increased shipments offsetting some metal margin compression as contractual steel pricing catches up with recent spot price improvements. The energy, non-residential construction, automotive, and industrial sectors continue to drive demand. Notably, the Sinton Texas Flat Roll Division operated at over 90% production levels during this period, with ongoing enhancements in product quality and cost efficiency, paving the way for anticipated profitability in the second quarter of 2025.
Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ:STLD) increased its first-quarter 2025 cash dividend by 9% to $0.50 per share and authorized an additional $1.5 billion share repurchase program. As of March 12, 2025, the company had repurchased $191 million of common stock in the first quarter.
Analysts have a bullish outlook on Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ:STLD), with UBS upgrading the stock to a “Buy” rating. The average price target from 16 ratings stands at $147.36, indicating a 16.98% potential upside, as of March 28.
4. AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU)
Number of Billionaires: 13
AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU) is a global gold mining company with a diverse, high-quality portfolio of operations, projects, and exploration activities across nine countries on four continents.
In September 2024, AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU) announced a $2.5 billion acquisition of Centamin, a mining company focused on operations in Egypt. This strategic move, which included Centamin’s flagship Sukari gold mine, is expected to boost AngloGold’s annual production above 3 million ounces, positioning it as the world’s fourth-largest gold producer.
AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU) saw a nine-fold increase in free cash flow to $942 million in 2024 compared to the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA also experienced a 93% year-on-year rise, and the H2 dividend grew by 263% to 69 US cents per share.
AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU)’s stock has experienced significant growth, reaching a 52-week high of $37.75. The company’s market capitalization now stands at $19.09 billion, reflecting a one-year return of 67.72% and revenue growth of 26.43%, positioning it as the best metal stock to buy.
AngloGold Ashanti has 11 analyst ratings, with 55% recommending a “Buy.” The stock’s median price target is $35.03, indicating a 5.05% upside potential. Additionally, institutional investors hold 74.00% of the company’s shares, reflecting strong confidence from large financial institutions in the company’s future growth and market performance.
3. Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM)
Number of Billionaires: 13
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) stands as the world’s leading gold producer and a significant miner of copper, silver, zinc, and lead. With operations spanning North America, South America, Australia, and Africa, Newmont boasts a diversified portfolio anchored in favorable mining jurisdictions. The company’s commitment to sustainable and responsible mining has earned it recognition as the top gold miner in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for nine consecutive years.
In March 2025, the company completed the sale of its Musselwhite, Éléonore, and Cripple Creek & Victor (CC&V) mines, with plans to finalize the divestiture of its Akyem operation in Ghana and the Porcupine operation in Canada during the first half of the year. These transactions are expected to generate up to $4.3 billion in gross proceeds, enhancing Newmont’s financial flexibility.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) reported a robust adjusted EBITDA of $62 million in the first quarter of 2025, marking an all-time high. The company subsequently raised its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance to between $250 million and $270 million, up from the prior range of $180 million to $200 million. This performance was driven by a 24% year-over-year revenue increase to $635 million, reflecting strong operational execution. Additionally, Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) expanded its monthly transacting users to 38 million during the quarter, up from 33 million a year earlier.
Analysts maintain a consensus “Buy” rating on Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM), with a one-year median price target suggesting a 32% upside from current levels as of March 28, 2025. The stock recently closed at $48.39, outperforming major indices on that trading day.
2. United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:X)
Number of Billionaires: 14
United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:X) is a leading integrated steel producer serving industries such as automotive, construction, appliance, energy, containers, and packaging. The company manufactures flat-rolled and tubular steel products, including proprietary advanced high-strength steels like XG3.
United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:X) guided for the first quarter of 2025, projecting an adjusted net loss per share between $0.53 and $0.49, with an adjusted EBITDA of approximately $125 million. The Mini Mill segment, including Big River Steel (BRS) and Big River 2 (BR2), is expected to see sequential improvements due to increasing volumes. The company is progressing toward full capacity at BR2, anticipating run-rate throughput in the second half of 2025 and full capability by 2026.
In the broader steel industry, United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:X) continues to focus on innovation and sustainability. The company is investing in technologies to support the growing demand for electric vehicles and green energy production, exemplified by the inauguration of a state-of-the-art, non-grain-oriented electrical steel line at Big River Steel.
As of March 28, 2025, U.S. Steel’s stock (NYSE:X) is trading at $43.08. While the stock has experienced volatility due to acquisition news and financial projections, some analysts view the company’s turnaround efforts and strategic investments as potential catalysts for future growth.
In 2024, United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:X) reported a total revenue of $15.63 billion with a net income of $384 million. Among 11 analysts, 55% rated the stock as a Buy, though the upside potential remains limited at 0.42%.
1. Teck Resources Limited (NYSE:TECK)
Number of Billionaires: 16
Teck Resources Limited (NYSE:TECK) is a leading Canadian resource company specializing in the exploration, development, and production of essential minerals. The company’s primary products include copper and zinc.
In recent years, Teck Resources Limited (NYSE:TECK) has strategically shifted its focus toward metals integral to the global energy transition. This pivot was underscored by the sale of its steelmaking coal business to a Glencore-led consortium for $9 billion, allowing the company to concentrate on expanding its copper and zinc operations.
In Q4 2024, the company reported a 19% year-over-year increase in copper output, totaling 122,100 tonnes, with 60,700 tonnes from the Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile. This surge contributed to an adjusted profit of C$0.45 per share, surpassing analysts’ expectations. Teck forecasts copper production to rise to between 490,000 and 565,000 tonnes in 2025.
In response to recent U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports, Teck Resources Limited (NYSE:TECK) is exploring alternative markets for its zinc products. The company is considering redirecting sales to Asia to mitigate the impact of a 25% tariff imposed by the U.S. administration.
Teck Resources (NYSE:TECK) has strong analyst support, with 77% of 22 analysts rating it a Buy. The stock has an average target price, suggesting a 36.19% upside potential. Additionally, institutional investors hold 77.46% of the company’s shares, reflecting strong confidence in its long-term growth.
The company’s strategic realignment and focus on critical minerals position it well to capitalize on the increasing demand for resources vital to the global energy transition as a best metal stock to invest in.
Overall, Teck Resources Limited (NYSE:TECK) ranks first on our list of the best metal stocks to buy according to billionaires. While we acknowledge the potential for TECK as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than TECK but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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