On April 17th, I presented Newmont Mining (NEM) as a top stock pick on the Halftime Report. In hindsight, I should have simply bought the stock instead of discussing it—it’s surged nearly 70% since then. This year has proven to be exceptional for gold, silver, and even copper mining stocks, marking one of the best periods I’ve witnessed in my career. Many of the stocks we’ll highlight have been on our radar for most of the year. While this trend may not last indefinitely, if you anticipate rising gold prices, these stocks should be on your watchlist.
Currently, I have reservations about Newmont’s setup. The stock has recently gone parabolic, making it a risky proposition for latecomers. NEM is now 65% above its 200-day simple moving average and 20% above its 50-day average. It would be wise to monitor the market for a downturn in metals prices, as they typically bring stocks like this back to more reasonable levels. I would consider re-entering if it stabilizes in the mid-80s.
Sean will delve into the sector’s best stocks from a fundamental perspective, while I’ll share my preferred setups.
Best Stock Spotlight: Metals Stocks
Sean: If the year ended today, gold would be up 60%, marking the best year for gold since 1979. This is a significant factor in the metals and mining industry’s strong performance. Typically seen as a secondary option, silver has also shone brightly this year, boasting an impressive 84% increase. The metals and mining sector is currently the top-performing industry group in the stock market, up an astonishing 91%. It’s challenging to find an asset that outperforms this sector in 2025, which explains the enthusiasm among gold investors.
Gold and silver prices have surged due to several favorable factors, including central bank demand, a weakening dollar, and geopolitical tensions. Let’s take a closer look at a few names on our Best Stocks list that focus on precious metals: SCCO, AU, and NEM. These stocks have performed exceptionally well this year. Southern Copper Corp (SCCO) is up 49% year-to-date, Newmont (NEM) has skyrocketed 151%, and AngloGold Ashanti (AU) has surged an impressive 226%.
Southern Copper Corp (SCCO): As one of the largest copper producers globally, SCCO is benefiting from robust global demand and tight supply, driven by electrification and infrastructure spending. The company anticipates a 16% EPS growth this year.
AngloGold Ashanti (AU): This global gold miner operates across Africa and the Americas, capitalizing on rising gold prices and improved cost controls. AU is expected to be the fastest earnings grower in 2025, with a remarkable 157% growth in EPS. In its previous earnings call, the company reported a 149% increase in free cash flow, with its free cash flow margin improving from 16% to 28% for the quarter.
Newmont Corporation (NEM): As the world’s largest gold mining company, NEM offers diversified production and cash flow sensitivity to higher gold prices. The company expects a 76% year-over-year EPS growth for the upcoming quarter. In its last quarter, Newmont reported all-in costs for gold mining at $1,593 per ounce, significantly lower than the current gold price.
Risk Management
Josh: Southern Copper appears just as extended as Newmont, so we’ll hold off on that one for now. I want to share insights on AngloGold Ashanti (AU), which has a compelling ticker symbol and a strong narrative for continued accumulation. Historically, AngloGold was viewed as a risky foreign issuer from South Africa, often disappointing shareholders. However, in 2023, the company underwent a significant overhaul of its legal and organizational structure, which had previously hindered its appeal in the U.S. market.
Two years ago, AngloGold relocated its domicile from South Africa to the United Kingdom, establishing AngloGold Ashanti plc as its new parent entity and securing a primary listing on the NYSE under the ticker AU. This strategic move made the company eligible for inclusion in U.S. equity benchmarks for the first time. Following FTSE Russell’s country-assignment review in April 2025, AngloGold was classified within the U.S. equity universe and subsequently added to the Russell 3000 and related sub-indexes during the June 30th reconstitution.
This transition has broadened its investor exposure, compelling the investment community to take notice. Earlier this year, AU introduced a revamped dividend policy that aligns shareholder payouts more closely with free cash flow, ensuring a consistent base return. The new framework will distribute 50% of free cash flow to shareholders through dividends, with a minimum annual base payout of 50 cents per share, paid quarterly, even during lower-profit periods.
Management has emphasized that this updated policy reflects stronger balance sheet flexibility and a commitment to returning capital as the company evolves into a more geographically diversified, investment-grade gold producer. AU is currently consolidating its gains, demonstrating typical market behavior as buyers and sellers show indecision. If you’re bullish on gold and want to invest in the equity market, I recommend using a trailing stop at the rising 50-day simple moving average. This level has proven supportive since January, with potential breaks below typically resolving to the upside. If buyers fail to show up on the next test, it may be time to reevaluate your position.
DISCLOSURES: (None) All opinions expressed by the CNBC Pro contributors are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of CNBC, NBC Universal, their parent company, or affiliates. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Before making any financial decisions, consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment advisor. Investing involves risk. The views and opinions expressed are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Ritholtz Wealth Management, LLC. Josh Brown is the CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management and may maintain a security position in the securities discussed.
