Commodities: A Cautionary Tale

The president's big tent strategy has soothed political opposition. But it will also force him to dial back ambitious plans to spur foreign investment.

Given China's threats to halt rare earth exports to the U.S., a processing plant in Malaysia stands to remain a critical source for some of those elements -- so long as the operator can address environmental concerns.

Abundant minerals lay buried beneath Pakistan's ground. So why is the country having such a tough time exploiting them?

Glencore will halt operations at the facility that produces 20 percent of the world's cobalt supply, creating repercussions for market and tech manufacturers.

To retaliate for White House targeting of its technology sector, Beijing could limit exports of the elements crucial to U.S. tech production. But such a move would carry a steep price.

The aftermath of the worst-ever natural disaster to hit the southern hemisphere risks exacerbating already dire economic and political situations in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

A glut of oil in the market means prices are likely to remain low throughout 2019. That's likely to bring contrasting fortunes to major oil producers around the globe.

With finances running low, the Venezuelan government is looking to divert funds from the country's main income earner: the state oil company.

Countries are seeking greater national control over their natural resources these days. While this pursuit is consistent with long-term trends, the medium-term outlook is more cyclical.

Traditional uses for copper, such as in electricity transmission and construction materials, will still dominate, even as electric vehicle use bumps up demand for the metal. This reality puts its suppliers in a complicated position.