Production Growth — Copper Equivalent
Copper equivalent production increased 8% year-on-year, with annual production records set for both copper and bauxite; management reiterated ambition of ~3% CAGR in copper equivalent production through the end of the decade.
Strong EBITDA and Earnings
Underlying EBITDA rose 9% to $25.4 billion; underlying earnings were $10.9 billion, supporting a shareholder return of 60% of underlying earnings (dividends of $6.5 billion).
Copper Outperformance
Copper was a standout: copper EBITDA more than doubled to $7.4 billion; copper prices ended the year ~44% higher than 12 months earlier (transcript notes average prices rose c.9%), and OT shipments were up 60% with underground development complete and targeted output ~500,000 tpa (2028–2036).
Productivity and Cost Reduction Momentum
Self-help measures unlocked a $650 million annualized productivity run rate (targeted to be achieved by end of Q1) and management expects cash improvements materially above the Q1 run rate in 2026; copper-equivalent unit costs reduced by 5%.
Operational Recoveries and Asset Performance
Pilbara mines rebounded strongly after cyclones and hit production records from April; iron ore unit costs at $23.50/t in 2025 with guidance $23.50–$25/t for 2026; aluminum delivered record smelting and bauxite production and EBITDA up ~20%.
Progress on Major Growth Projects
Oyu Tolgoi underground development is complete and ramping; first shipment from Simandou achieved in December with a target of 60 Mtpa at full ramp-up; lithium in‑flight projects progressed, targeting ~200,000 tpa capacity by 2028.
Portfolio and Capital Discipline
Management reiterated rigorous capital allocation: testing markets for RTIT and Borates, targeting $5–$10 billion in cash proceeds from portfolio, CapEx guidance up to $11 billion for next 2 years then stepping to ~$10 billion thereafter.
Balance Sheet and Dividends
Net debt increased to $14.4 billion (post Arcadium acquisition) but gearing remained modest at ~18%; maintained dividend policy and paid at the top end (60%) for the 10th consecutive year.