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Rio Tinto Limited (AU:RIO)
ASX:RIO

Rio Tinto Limited (RIO) AI Stock Analysis

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AU:RIO

Rio Tinto Limited

(Sydney:RIO)

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Outperform 78 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:78Outperform
Price Target:
AU$173.00
▲(21.46% Upside)
Rio Tinto Limited's overall stock score reflects its strong financial performance and positive technical indicators. The company benefits from a robust balance sheet and attractive dividend yield. However, recent revenue declines and reduced free cash flow are concerns that need addressing to sustain growth.
Positive Factors
Balance sheet strength
A low debt-to-equity ratio (0.25) and a 53.8% equity ratio indicate conservative leverage and a solid capital base. This structural strength enhances financial flexibility for sustaining dividends, funding cyclical capex, and enduring commodity downturns without urgent external financing.
High operating margins
Robust gross (56.4%), EBIT (29.2%) and EBITDA (43.2%) margins reflect durable operational efficiency and cost control across large-scale mining operations. High structural margins provide cash cushion versus commodity volatility and support reinvestment, dividends, and long-term competitiveness.
Cash conversion capacity
An operating cash flow to net income ratio of 1.35 shows the company reliably converts accounting profits into cash, underpinning ongoing capital expenditure funding, debt servicing and shareholder returns. Strong cash conversion is a durable indicator of operational health.
Negative Factors
Falling free cash flow
A 25.9% decline in free cash flow is a meaningful deterioration in available internal funding. If persistent, it could constrain capital allocation, limit growth investments or pressure dividend policy, reducing strategic optionality over the medium term until FCF stabilizes.
Revenue and margin pressure
A revenue decline alongside a reduced net profit margin suggests either pricing pressure or rising costs. Sustained top-line weakness and margin compression can erode cash flows and returns, challenging the company’s ability to invest and maintain dividend levels over the coming quarters.
Limited equity growth
Minimal growth in total equity constrains the firm’s organic capital base expansion, limiting balance-sheet flexibility for large-scale M&A or shock absorption. Over time, this can force greater reliance on debt or asset sales to fund strategic investments or respond to market shifts.

Rio Tinto Limited (RIO) vs. iShares MSCI Australia ETF (EWA)

Rio Tinto Limited Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionRio Tinto Group engages in exploring, mining, and processing mineral resources worldwide. The company offers aluminum, copper, diamonds, gold, borates, titanium dioxide, salt, iron ore, and lithium. It also owns and operates open pit and underground mines, mills, refineries, smelters, power stations, and research and service facilities. Rio Tinto Group was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
How the Company Makes MoneyRio Tinto generates revenue primarily through the sale of its mined products, which include iron ore, aluminum, copper, diamonds, and various industrial minerals. The company’s key revenue streams are dominated by iron ore sales, which contribute a significant portion of its total earnings due to high global demand, particularly from countries like China. Additionally, Rio Tinto earns money from its aluminum segment, which includes bauxite mining and alumina refining, as well as from copper operations that serve various industrial applications. The company also engages in joint ventures and partnerships, such as its collaborations with other mining firms and local governments, which can enhance operational efficiencies and expand its market reach. Factors contributing to Rio Tinto’s earnings include global commodity prices, production volumes, and operational cost management.

Rio Tinto Limited Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Feb 19, 2025
(Q4-2024)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Feb 19, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call presented a strong performance in terms of production growth, financial stability, and strategic diversification, particularly in the copper and aluminum segments. However, this was somewhat offset by challenges related to declining iron ore prices, production disruptions due to weather, and ongoing cost pressures.
Q4-2024 Updates
Positive Updates
Consistent Production Growth
Copper equivalent production increased by 1% in 2024, with a mid-range guidance indicating another 4% growth led by the ramp-up of Oyu Tolgoi. A decade of 3% compound annual production growth is projected.
Strong Financial Performance
Operating cash flow increased by 3% with a 67% EBITDA cash conversion rate. The company maintained a 60% payout for the ordinary dividend, equating to $6.5 billion, marking the ninth consecutive year at the top end of the range.
Strategic Diversification
The company is diversifying towards copper, aluminum, and lithium, with the acquisition of Arcadium Lithium enhancing future growth prospects.
Decarbonization Progress
Emissions were reduced by 14% between 2018 and 2024, with significant progress towards the 2030 target of a 50% emissions cut.
Negative Updates
Iron Ore Price Decline
Underlying EBITDA was down 2% to $23.3 billion, largely due to an 11% lower iron ore price.
Challenges with Iron Ore Production
Adverse weather conditions, including tropical cyclones, impacted first-quarter production and shipment volumes in the Pilbara region.
Cost Pressures
Sustained inflationary pressures and cost increases, particularly in the iron ore segment, have led to higher production costs.
Company Guidance
During the call, Jakob Stausholm detailed Rio Tinto's guidance for 2024, highlighting significant growth and operational improvements. The company achieved a 1% increase in copper equivalent production for 2024 and anticipates an additional 4% growth this year, primarily driven by the ramp-up of Oyu Tolgoi. Excluding the acquisition of Arcadium Lithium, this growth is expected to continue organically, contributing to a projected decade-long compound annual production growth rate of 3%. Financially, despite an 11% drop in iron ore prices, the company managed to limit the decrease in underlying EBITDA to just 2%, totaling $23.3 billion, thanks to a strong performance in the aluminum and copper divisions. Operating cash flow increased by 3%, with a 67% EBITDA cash conversion rate. The company maintained a robust balance sheet with $5.5 billion in net debt and declared a 60% payout for the ordinary dividend, equating to $6.5 billion, marking the ninth consecutive year of such returns. This resilience is further backed by a diversified portfolio and disciplined cost management, as evidenced by a 4% reduction in copper unit costs and a 3% reduction in group-wide functional costs year-on-year. Additionally, Rio Tinto is on track with its decarbonization efforts, having cut emissions by 14% between 2018 and 2024, setting the stage for achieving a 50% reduction by 2030.

Rio Tinto Limited Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Rio Tinto Limited shows strong financial performance with efficient operations and solid margins. The balance sheet is robust with low leverage and a strong equity base. However, concerns exist over recent revenue declines and reduced free cash flow, which could impact future growth.
Income Statement
Rio Tinto Limited has demonstrated solid financial performance. The gross profit margin stands at 56.4%, indicating efficient cost management. However, the net profit margin is at 21.5%, slightly lower than previous years, suggesting increased expenses or lower revenue efficiency. The company experienced a slight revenue decline of 0.71% compared to the previous year, which could be a concern if this trend continues. Nonetheless, the EBIT and EBITDA margins are strong at 29.2% and 43.2%, respectively, reflecting good operational efficiency.
Balance Sheet
The balance sheet of Rio Tinto Limited is robust, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, indicating a conservative approach to leverage. The equity ratio is healthy at 53.8%, which suggests financial stability and a strong capital base. Return on equity is 20.9%, showing effective use of equity to generate profits. Despite these strengths, the total equity has shown minimal growth, which may limit future financial flexibility.
Cash Flow
The cash flow situation is stable, with a free cash flow to net income ratio of 0.52, indicating adequate cash generation relative to profits. However, the free cash flow has decreased by 25.9% compared to the previous year, which could impact future investment capacity if not improved. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is robust at 1.35, reflecting strong cash earnings capacity.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue53.73B53.66B54.04B55.55B63.49B44.61B
Gross Profit29.00B30.28B17.30B21.30B31.34B18.70B
EBITDA22.31B23.16B21.08B22.71B33.93B21.51B
Net Income10.27B11.55B10.06B12.42B21.09B9.77B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets120.81B102.79B103.55B96.74B102.90B97.39B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments9.33B7.20B9.78B8.91B15.29B12.76B
Total Debt23.64B13.86B14.35B12.27B13.53B13.83B
Total Liabilities58.84B44.82B47.21B44.47B46.31B45.49B
Stockholders Equity58.20B55.25B54.59B50.63B51.43B47.05B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow5.13B5.98B8.07B9.38B17.96B9.69B
Operating Cash Flow15.47B15.60B15.16B16.13B25.34B15.88B
Investing Cash Flow-17.27B-9.59B-6.96B-6.71B-7.16B-6.56B
Financing Cash Flow1.53B-7.09B-5.28B-15.47B-15.86B-7.13B

Rio Tinto Limited Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Neutral
Last Price142.43
Price Trends
50DMA
137.55
Positive
100DMA
129.30
Positive
200DMA
119.93
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
3.18
Positive
RSI
48.35
Neutral
STOCH
32.63
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For AU:RIO, the sentiment is Neutral. The current price of 142.43 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 145.15, above the 50-day MA of 137.55, and above the 200-day MA of 119.93, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of 3.18 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 48.35 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 32.63 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Neutral sentiment for AU:RIO.

Rio Tinto Limited Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (61)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
78
Outperform
$204.34B14.6818.11%3.93%0.38%-3.57%
76
Outperform
AU$69.89B13.4117.06%4.96%-13.65%-39.85%
68
Neutral
AU$242.31B17.3819.51%3.75%-6.74%15.92%
64
Neutral
£17.23B43.263.64%2.67%6.53%
61
Neutral
$10.43B7.12-0.05%2.87%2.86%-36.73%
58
Neutral
AU$11.20B-12.66-26.55%-15.27%-817.26%
49
Neutral
$6.55B-7.07-35.65%-37.23%-32433.33%
* Basic Materials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
AU:RIO
Rio Tinto Limited
142.43
28.66
25.19%
AU:S32
South32
3.90
0.58
17.58%
AU:BHP
BHP Group Ltd
46.51
8.01
20.81%
AU:FMG
Fortescue Metals Group Ltd
22.40
4.97
28.54%
AU:IGO
IGO
8.91
3.93
78.92%
AU:MIN
Mineral Resources Limited
58.58
22.81
63.77%

Rio Tinto Limited Corporate Events

Rio Tinto Issues 167,953 New Shares Following Conversion of Unquoted Securities
Jan 9, 2026

Rio Tinto Limited has notified the market of the issue of 167,953 fully paid ordinary shares arising from the exercise or conversion of previously unquoted equity securities, effective 31 December 2025. The modest increase in issued capital reflects the crystallisation of unquoted options or convertible instruments, signalling ongoing use of equity-based incentives or financing structures but with no indication in the filing of any material change to the company’s overall capital position or operations.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$130.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Issues 194,103 Unquoted Share Rights Under Employee Incentive Plan
Jan 9, 2026

Rio Tinto Limited has notified the ASX of the issue of 194,103 unquoted share rights under its employee incentive scheme, effective 31 December 2025, via an Appendix 3G filing. The issuance of these unquoted equity securities reflects the company’s ongoing use of long-term incentives to align employee and executive remuneration with shareholder interests, without diluting the quoted share capital on the exchange, and underscores continued emphasis on performance-based compensation structures within the resources sector.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$130.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Reports Lapse of 83,169 Conditional Share Rights
Jan 9, 2026

Rio Tinto Limited has notified the market that 83,169 share rights, trading under the ASX code RIOAL, have lapsed as of 31 December 2025 because the conditions attached to those rights were not, or could no longer be, satisfied. The cessation of these conditional securities marginally reduces the company’s potential future share issuance under that particular rights program and reflects the performance or service conditions embedded in its equity-based remuneration or incentive structures.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$130.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Sets Out 2026 Dividend and Results Timetable
Jan 8, 2026

Rio Tinto has released its key financial calendar dates for 2026, outlining the timetable for the company’s 2025 final dividend and 2026 interim dividend. The schedule includes dates for full-year and half-year results announcements, ex-dividend and record dates for both ordinary shares and ADRs, deadlines for participation in dividend reinvestment plans and alternative currency elections, and payment dates for both the final and interim dividends. The company also noted that annual general meeting dates will be confirmed later, giving investors and stakeholders clearer visibility over Rio Tinto’s 2026 reporting and capital return timetable.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$140.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Confirms Early-Stage Merger Talks With Glencore
Jan 8, 2026

Rio Tinto has confirmed that it is in preliminary discussions with Glencore over a potential combination of some or all of their businesses, which could involve an all-share merger implemented via a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement resulting in Rio Tinto acquiring Glencore. While the talks could reshape the global mining landscape and materially expand Rio Tinto’s portfolio and scale, the company stressed there is no certainty an offer will be made or what its terms might be, and it has until 5 February 2026 to announce a firm intention to bid or walk away under UK takeover rules, with further updates to be provided as appropriate.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$140.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Updates Director’s Equity Holdings
Dec 8, 2025

Rio Tinto Limited announced changes in the director’s interest notice for Simon Trott, reflecting adjustments in his equity holdings under the company’s Equity Incentive Plan. The changes involve the acquisition and disposal of awards and shares, primarily due to the vesting of Bonus Deferral Awards (BDA) and the subsequent tax implications. This update is part of routine disclosures under corporate governance requirements, ensuring transparency in director dealings.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$130.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Announces Vesting of Bonus Deferral Awards for Key Executives
Dec 4, 2025

Rio Tinto Limited announced the vesting of Bonus Deferral Awards (BDA) for its key management personnel, as part of its 2018 Equity Incentive Plan. The awards, which are delivered as deferred ordinary shares, saw a portion sold to cover taxes and deductions, with the remainder retained by the executives. This move reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to aligning management incentives with shareholder interests.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Reports Initial Lithium Resource and Reserve Estimates
Dec 4, 2025

Rio Tinto has announced the initial reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves for seven lithium assets acquired from Arcadium Lithium. These assets include four lithium brines deposits in Argentina and three hard rock spodumene deposits in Canada and Australia. This announcement positions Rio Tinto to strengthen its presence in the lithium market, which is vital for the growing demand in electric vehicle batteries. The detailed reporting of these resources and reserves highlights the company’s strategic focus on expanding its lithium production capabilities, potentially impacting its market positioning and offering significant opportunities for stakeholders.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Reports Initial Lithium Resources and Reserves
Dec 4, 2025

Rio Tinto has announced the initial reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves for seven lithium assets acquired through the purchase of Arcadium Lithium. These assets include four lithium brine deposits in Argentina and three hard rock spodumene deposits in Canada and Australia. This marks the first time Rio Tinto is reporting these resources in compliance with the JORC Code and ASX Listing Rules. The announcement highlights Rio Tinto’s strategic expansion into the lithium market, which is crucial for the growing demand in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage. This move is expected to strengthen the company’s position in the lithium industry and provide significant opportunities for growth and development.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Highlights Strategic Focus Amid Industry Challenges
Dec 4, 2025

Rio Tinto’s recent presentation at the Capital Markets Day highlighted the company’s strategic focus and the challenges it faces, including geopolitical impacts, climate change, and technological advancements. The company emphasized the importance of managing risks and uncertainties to maintain its industry position and meet stakeholder expectations.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Unveils Strategic Plan for Enhanced Returns and Growth
Dec 4, 2025

Rio Tinto has announced a strategic plan to enhance its operations by becoming stronger, sharper, and simpler, aiming to deliver industry-leading returns. The company is focusing on operational excellence, project execution, and capital discipline to drive growth and improve productivity. Key initiatives include a 7% production growth expected in 2025, significant productivity benefits, and the opportunistic release of $5-10 billion from existing assets. The strategy also involves upgrading production guidance for copper and bauxite, while maintaining a strong balance sheet and a commitment to decarbonization. These efforts are designed to position Rio Tinto as the most valued metals and mining company, benefiting shareholders, employees, partners, and communities.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Announces Strategic Board Restructuring
Oct 24, 2025

Rio Tinto Limited has announced several changes to its Board of Directors, marking the end of a transitional phase. Key changes include the stepping down of Simon Henry and Martina Merz, with Sharon Thorne taking over as Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee and Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz joining the Sustainability Committee. Ben Wyatt has been appointed as the Senior Independent Director with a focus on Board engagement in Australia. These changes reflect Rio Tinto’s ongoing efforts to enhance its governance and strategic focus on sustainability and innovation.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$124.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Announces Share Vesting and Acquisitions by Key Management
Oct 22, 2025

Rio Tinto Limited announced the vesting and acquisition of shares by its key management personnel under the Global Employee Share Plan (myShare) and the UK Share Plan (UKSP). On 17 October 2025, several key management personnel received vested matching shares, with some sold to cover taxes, while others acquired new shares under the plans. These initiatives are part of Rio Tinto’s efforts to align employee interests with company performance, potentially enhancing stakeholder value and employee engagement.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$129.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Rio Tinto Reports Strong Q3 2025 Production with Upgraded Bauxite Guidance
Oct 13, 2025

Rio Tinto’s third quarter 2025 production results highlight strong performance across its portfolio, with record production in bauxite and significant progress in copper output at Oyu Tolgoi. The company has upgraded its bauxite production guidance and is on track to meet its 2025 targets, despite challenges in Pilbara iron ore shipments due to cyclone impacts. The company is focused on operational excellence and strategic growth projects, aiming to deliver further shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (AU:RIO) stock is a Hold with a A$115.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Rio Tinto Limited stock, see the AU:RIO Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Sep 27, 2025