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Critical Mineral Demand Surges, Driving Investment

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 22:06 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales: CANADA, AUSTRALIA, UNITED STATES

New York, NY - February 24, 2026 - The global demand for critical minerals - those essential for modern technologies and green energy transitions - continues its upward trajectory, creating a fertile ground for investment and reshaping the mining landscape. While lithium and cobalt often dominate headlines regarding electric vehicle battery components, equally crucial materials like tungsten, copper, and silver are experiencing a surge in demand, fueled by a broader range of applications, from renewable energy infrastructure to consumer electronics.

This isn't simply a short-term trend. Experts predict continued robust growth for these minerals in the coming years, driven by global commitments to decarbonization and the increasing prevalence of technology in everyday life. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, a leading authority in the sector, recently released a report forecasting substantial growth, solidifying the long-term viability of mining companies focused on these resources.

Why the Triad of Tungsten, Copper, and Silver?

• Tungsten: Often referred to as "nature's hardest metal," tungsten is crucial for high-strength alloys used in electric vehicles, aerospace, and various industrial applications. Its high melting point and density make it irreplaceable in many contexts. Demand is also driven by the ongoing need for cutting tools, drilling equipment, and lighting. The race to secure tungsten supplies has intensified due to geopolitical concerns, as China currently dominates production.
• Copper: The backbone of electrical infrastructure, copper is essential for renewable energy generation, transmission, and storage. Solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle charging stations all heavily rely on copper. As the world transitions to green energy, copper demand is expected to outstrip supply, creating potential price volatility and investment opportunities. Furthermore, burgeoning data centers required for AI and cloud computing are massive copper consumers.
• Silver: While traditionally valued as a precious metal and used in jewelry, silver plays a vital role in solar panel manufacturing, electrical contacts, and modern medicine. Its excellent conductivity makes it essential for many technological applications. Unlike other precious metals, a significant portion of silver demand stems from industrial uses, offering a degree of resilience against economic downturns solely impacting investor demand.

Five Companies Leading the Charge

Investors are increasingly focused on companies poised to capitalize on this mineral surge. Here's a look at five companies making significant strides in the tungsten, copper, and silver space:

1. Thor Mining PLC (ASX:THM): This Australian-based resource company is making waves with its flagship Pilot Mountain tungsten mine in the USA. Pilot Mountain is strategically located in a historically rich tungsten district and offers potential for expansion, positioning Thor Mining as a key player in the North American tungsten supply chain. Recent drilling results have demonstrated promising high-grade tungsten mineralization, boosting investor confidence. Thor Mining also has exploration projects in Canada and Europe diversifying its portfolio.

2. Copper Bank Ltd. (ASX:CBH): Focused on the copper-gold rich regions of Chile, Peru, and Argentina, Copper Bank Ltd. is aggressively pursuing the acquisition and development of promising copper projects. The South American Copper Belt is known for its large-scale copper deposits, and Copper Bank's strategy of acquiring early-stage assets with significant exploration potential offers compelling growth prospects. The company recently completed a successful financing round to accelerate exploration programs.

3. Silver Bear Resources Inc. (CVE:SBR): This Canadian resource company is targeting the precious metals market in Romania and Bulgaria. Silver Bear's projects benefit from favorable mining jurisdictions within the European Union, providing stability and regulatory clarity. The company is actively developing its silver deposits, aiming to become a significant silver producer in the region. They are focusing on sustainable mining practices and building strong relationships with local communities.

4. Lumini Resources Inc. (CVE:LUM): Lumini Resources explores base metal projects in Spain, uniquely positioning it in the European supply chain. Spain's growing focus on sustainable resource development provides a supportive environment for Lumini's projects, which focus on both tungsten and copper. The company's flagship project, the Cumbre del Real project, has a historical production record, potentially streamlining the path to production.

5. Silvercorp Metals Inc. (TSX:SVM): An established silver producer with operations in China, Silvercorp Metals offers a more mature investment profile. The company has a proven track record of successful mining operations and a strong balance sheet. While geographically concentrated in China, Silvercorp consistently demonstrates operational efficiency and responsible mining practices. The company is also diversifying into other base metals to broaden its revenue streams.

Looking Ahead

The critical minerals sector is poised for continued growth, offering significant opportunities for investors and driving innovation in the mining industry. These five companies represent just a small fraction of the players actively involved in securing the supply of tungsten, copper, and silver, but their strategic focus and promising projects make them ones to watch in the coming years. The demand will only increase as the world continues its shift toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.