Antofagasta plc stock (GB0000456144): Shares surge 8.7% on copper rally

Antofagasta plc shares jumped 8.7% to 4,299p on May 13, 2026, fueled by a copper price squeeze that lifted the Chilean miner's stock toward its 52-week high.

Antofagasta plc shares surged 8.7% on Wednesday, closing at 4,299p after hitting a session high, driven by a copper price rally that boosted London-listed miners. The stock remains below its 52-week high of 4,475p but has rebounded sharply from recent levels, according to bez-kabli.pl as of May 13, 2026. This move positioned Antofagasta as the top performer on the Investing.com United Kingdom 100 index, up 345 points.

As of: 14.05.2026

By the editorial team – specialized in equity coverage.

At a glance

• Name: Antofagasta plc
• Sector/industry: Minerals & Mining
• Headquarters/country: Chile
• Core markets: Copper production
• Key revenue drivers: Copper sales
• Home exchange/listing venue: London Stock Exchange (ANTO)
• Trading currency: GBP

Antofagasta plc: core business model

Antofagasta plc operates as a Chilean-based copper mining group with interests in transport infrastructure. The company focuses on copper production and related activities, maintaining operations primarily in Chile. Its business model centers on mining, processing, and selling copper concentrates and cathodes, according to its official website.

The group emphasizes sustainable mining practices and expansion of its copper portfolio to meet global demand. Antofagasta plc generates revenue through sales of copper, alongside by-products like gold and molybdenum from its key assets.

Main revenue and product drivers for Antofagasta plc

Copper remains the primary revenue driver for Antofagasta plc, with prices influencing stock performance as seen in the recent 8.7% surge tied to a copper squeeze. In February 2026, Reuters reported core profit for 2025 up 52% to a record $5.2 billion, driven by record-high copper prices despite production levels, per bez-kabli.pl as of May 13, 2026.

Key mines contribute to output, with copper sales forming the bulk of income. The company also benefits from transport interests supporting its mining operations.

Industry trends and competitive position

The copper market has seen heightened demand due to electrification and renewable energy trends, benefiting producers like Antofagasta plc. A recent squeeze pushed prices higher, lifting shares across the sector. Antofagasta holds a strong position among London-listed miners with its Chile-focused assets.

Why Antofagasta plc matters for US investors

US investors track Antofagasta plc for its exposure to copper, critical for US infrastructure and tech sectors. The stock appears in US-listed ETFs like the Sprott Copper Miners ETF (COPP), providing indirect access via Nasdaq-traded funds, according to MarketBeat. Its performance reflects global commodity cycles relevant to American markets.

Conclusion

Antofagasta plc's recent 8.7% share price gain highlights its sensitivity to copper market dynamics, with the stock approaching prior highs amid a commodity rally. The company's strong 2025 profit growth underscores its operational resilience. US investors may monitor its role in copper ETFs and global supply trends for broader market insights.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute investment advice. Stocks are volatile financial instruments.