To everything, there is a season. Copper has been in season for several years now, so the big question on many Fools' minds is whether that strength can continue, or whether the soft metal is preparing to go soft.
The increased demand from robust housing construction in emerging markets like China has partially been offset by weakness in housing in the U.S. and Europe. However, the combination of persistently low global stockpiles of copper this year and the mounting barriers to entry for new copper suppliers has many industry insiders forecasting strength in copper for several more years.
For investors seeking exposure to the malleable metal, consider a trip south of the border to Southern Copper
To sweeten the pot further, Southern Copper offers a dividend yield of more than 6%, significantly higher than its metal mining peers. Since the dividend yield remains strong on the heels of a 439% share price increase over the past three years, Fools can rest assured that income distributions represent a core commitment of company management.
With a healthy growth pipeline, steady income growth, and a negative $0.23 per pound cash cost for its production (net of by-products), Southern Copper sits comfortably near the top of the heap of potential copper investments.
Further Foolishness:
- Southern Copper is going for the gold.
- Last quarter's earnings were bullish.
- Looking for a smaller copper play?