Materials Up With Metals Prices on Hopes for War's End — Materials Roundup

ForkLibertarian · 2026-03-31T23:55:26+00:00

Metal producers experienced gains as prices rose amid optimism for peace in Iran. Virtus Minerals' acquisition of a major cobalt producer marks a significant achievement. Gold saw a 3% increase, despite facing losses due to the U.S.-Israeli conflict's effects on the dollar.

ForkLibertarian

2026-03-31 23:55:26

Abstract generation in progress

Producers of metals, grains and other raw materials rose alongside metals prices amid hopes for an end to the war in Iran.

A U.S. firm, Virtus Minerals has finally acquired one of the world’s largest cobalt producers not already in China’s hands, marking a significant win for the Trump administration.

Gold futures rose 3% to roughly $4,695 an ounce, paring its losses for March to 11%.

The repercussions of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran caused the U.S. dollar to surge, triggering the biggest monthly loss for the precious metal since 2013.

Shares of U.S. copper and gold miner Freeport McMoRan surged by more than 7%, one of their biggest gains in recent years.

Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 31, 2026 18:05 ET (22:05 GMT)

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