U.S. stock market midday update: Expectations of a rebound in battery metal prices boost Critical Metals by 16.86%

U.S. Stock Market Midday Update Critical Metals rose 16.86%. Based on recent key news: On December 31, Sage announced the suspension of its lithium project in Austria, awaiting a recovery in battery metal prices. This news led to a cautious market outlook for the lithium industry, affecting the volatility of related stocks. On December 31, Greenland's capital costs are expected to reach approximately $500 million, while downstream processing facilities may exceed $1 billion. This news raised market concerns about project costs and profitability, impacting stock prices. On December 31, expectations for a recovery in battery metal prices strengthened, driving up related stocks. The lithium industry faces risks of price volatility. Top Stocks by Industry Trading Volume MP Materials rose 6.27%, with a trading volume of $116 million, and increased trading activity, with no significant news recently. The trading is active, with clear capital flows, and considering the sector and industry trends, the stock shows significant volatility, with specific reasons needing further observation. Rio Tinto rose 1.44%. Based on recent key news: On December 31, copper miners reached year-end highs against a backdrop of a 42% rise in copper prices. Supply concerns due to mine disruptions, a weak dollar, and speculators' expectations of a surge in AI demand drove copper prices up. Rio Tinto's stock price rose about 37% for the year, reflecting strong market demand for copper and optimistic sentiment about price increases. On December 31, global mining giants Rio Tinto and BHP Group saw their stock prices rise approximately 37% and 25%, respectively. This growth is closely related to the rise in copper prices, indicating increased market confidence in the copper mining industry. On December 31, Goldman Sachs predicted that copper prices would reach $11,400 per ton by 2026, calling copper its "favorite" industrial metal. This forecast further supports the rise in copper miners' stock prices, particularly Rio Tinto's performance. The rise in copper prices has strengthened mining stocks. USA Rare Earth rose 13.44%, with a trading volume of $50.54 million, and increased trading activity, with no significant news recently. The trading is active, with clear capital flows, and considering the sector and industry trends, the stock shows significant volatility, with specific reasons needing further observation. Top Stocks by Industry Market Capitalization BHP Group rose 1.77%. Based on recent key news: On December 31, a FactSet survey showed analysts lowered BHP's 2026 EPS estimate to $4.42, with a target price of $51.50. This adjustment reflects a cautious market attitude towards the company's future profitability, which may affect investor confidence. On December 30, BHP announced plans to expand its investments in the copper mining sector to meet the growing global demand for copper. This move may enhance the company's long-term revenue expectations, driving up stock prices On December 29th, global iron ore prices rose, benefiting BHP as a major producer, and its stock price followed suit. The increase in iron ore prices has strengthened market expectations for the company's profitability. Global mining demand is growing, and copper prices are rising