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Freeport-McMoRan (FCX)
NYSE:FCX

Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) AI Stock Analysis

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Freeport-McMoRan

(NYSE:FCX)

66Neutral
Freeport-McMoRan's overall stock score reflects solid financial performance with strong profitability and operational efficiency, though offset by challenges in cash flow management. The technical analysis indicates mixed signals, with some caution advised due to overbought indicators. Valuation appears high relative to peers, but the company’s strong market positioning and strategic initiatives highlighted in the recent earnings call provide a positive outlook. Key risks include geopolitical issues and increased capital expenditures.
Positive Factors
Earnings
Freeport reported a 1Q EBITDA beat as copper sales volumes, realized prices and unit costs all beat what the company had guided to.
Production and Growth Potential
Freeport accounts for about 70% of refined US copper production and has massive resources and organic growth potential in the country.
Share Repurchases
Freeport repurchased shares for the first time since 3Q'24 by repurchasing 2.3m shares for $80m, indicating potential for further share repurchases.
Negative Factors
Cost Challenges
Tariffs could raise costs in North America by 5%, although FCX is trying to mitigate the impact.
Operational Costs
Costs in the US have been high for Freeport but are trending lower due to operating improvements, the benefit of low-cost leaching initiatives, and other technological improvements.
Tariffs and Costs
Management did note that its US costs could increase by as much as 5% due to tariffs on imported items.

Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

Freeport-McMoRan Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFreeport-McMoRan Inc. (FCX) is a leading international mining company headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. It is primarily engaged in the exploration, mining, and production of natural resources, with a strong focus on copper, gold, and molybdenum. The company operates large, long-lived, geographically diverse assets with significant proven and probable reserves of copper, gold, and molybdenum. Freeport-McMoRan's portfolio of assets includes the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia, one of the world's largest copper and gold deposits, as well as significant mining operations in North America, South America, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
How the Company Makes MoneyFreeport-McMoRan generates revenue primarily through the sale of copper, gold, and molybdenum, which are extracted from its mining operations. Copper is the largest contributor to the company's revenue, driven by its widespread use in electrical equipment, construction, and various industrial applications. Gold and molybdenum, valuable by-products of copper mining, also provide significant revenue streams. The company's earnings are influenced by commodity prices, which are determined by global supply and demand dynamics. Additionally, Freeport-McMoRan engages in strategic partnerships and joint ventures to optimize its operations and expand its resources, such as its collaboration with the Indonesian government for the Grasberg mine. The company's financial performance is also affected by operational efficiencies, cost management strategies, and investments in sustainable mining practices.

Freeport-McMoRan Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
Any
Revenue by Segment
Revenue by Segment
Highlights revenue from different business areas, such as copper, gold, and molybdenum, indicating which segments are driving growth and which may be vulnerable to market fluctuations or operational challenges.
Chart InsightsFreeport-McMoRan's copper revenue shows a steady upward trend, bolstered by strategic initiatives like the leach project, which significantly boosted production. Despite challenges in Indonesia, the company is optimistic about increasing copper output by 300 million pounds in 2025, with further growth anticipated. Gold revenue also surged, reflecting strong market positioning. However, increased capital expenditures and geopolitical risks could impact future financial flexibility. The company's focus on maintaining a robust balance sheet and leveraging U.S. production increases underscores its commitment to navigating these challenges and capitalizing on growth opportunities.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Freeport-McMoRan Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Freeport-McMoRan displays a solid financial position with robust profitability and operational efficiency, despite a slight decline in revenue. The balance sheet is stable with moderate leverage, but there is potential risk from reduced free cash flow due to high capital expenditures. Overall, the company is well-positioned but needs to focus on improving cash flow management to enhance its financial flexibility.
Income Statement
75
Positive
Freeport-McMoRan displayed robust financial health in the TTM period, with a Gross Profit Margin of 28.82% and a Net Profit Margin of 7.11%. The revenue showed a slight decline from the previous year, with a revenue growth rate of -2.32%. Despite this, the EBIT and EBITDA margins remain strong at 26.27% and 35.93%, respectively, indicating good operational efficiency and profitability.
Balance Sheet
70
Positive
The company maintains a solid equity base, with an Equity Ratio of 31.57%. The Debt-to-Equity Ratio stands at 0.53, indicating a moderate level of leverage. Return on Equity is 9.99%, reflecting a reasonable return for shareholders. Overall, the balance sheet remains stable, though there is room for improvement in asset utilization and debt management.
Cash Flow
68
Positive
Free Cash Flow has decreased by 32.16% year-over-year, highlighting challenges in cash generation. The Operating Cash Flow to Net Income Ratio is strong at 3.58, but the Free Cash Flow to Net Income Ratio is lower at 0.90, suggesting that capital expenditures are impacting cash flow. The company needs to manage its capital expenditures more effectively to improve free cash flow.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
25.45B22.86B22.78B22.84B14.20B
Gross Profit
7.66B7.16B7.69B8.81B2.54B
EBIT
6.86B6.22B7.04B8.37B2.44B
EBITDA
9.47B8.59B9.29B10.26B3.92B
Net Income Common Stockholders
1.89B1.84B3.47B4.31B853.00M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
3.92B4.76B8.15B8.07B3.66B
Total Assets
54.85B52.51B51.09B48.02B42.14B
Total Debt
9.74B9.85B10.62B9.45B9.71B
Net Debt
5.82B5.09B2.47B1.38B6.05B
Total Liabilities
26.07B25.20B26.22B25.00B23.48B
Stockholders Equity
17.58B16.69B15.55B13.98B10.17B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
2.35B455.00M1.67B5.60B1.06B
Operating Cash Flow
7.16B5.28B5.14B7.71B3.02B
Investing Cash Flow
-5.03B-4.96B-3.44B-1.96B-1.26B
Financing Cash Flow
-3.28B-2.65B-1.62B-1.34B-128.00M

Freeport-McMoRan Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price37.60
Price Trends
50DMA
36.38
Positive
100DMA
37.54
Positive
200DMA
41.07
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
0.26
Negative
RSI
56.81
Neutral
STOCH
77.85
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For FCX, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 37.6 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 34.06, above the 50-day MA of 36.38, and below the 200-day MA of 41.07, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of 0.26 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 56.81 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 77.85 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for FCX.

Freeport-McMoRan Risk Analysis

Freeport-McMoRan disclosed 30 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Freeport-McMoRan reported the most risks in the “Production” category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Freeport-McMoRan Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (49)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
NENEM
81
Outperform
$57.35B11.5716.64%1.94%48.69%
RIRIO
74
Outperform
$97.72B8.0120.93%6.69%-0.81%14.59%
74
Outperform
$67.38B19.7041.93%2.17%23.23%53.35%
MTMT
73
Outperform
$25.14B18.032.60%1.39%-8.56%68.36%
68
Neutral
$39.85B6.9915.98%7.97%
FCFCX
66
Neutral
$47.93B25.5910.13%1.59%3.57%
49
Neutral
$1.95B-1.37-21.20%3.73%0.84%-29.84%
* Basic Materials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
FCX
Freeport-McMoRan
37.60
-12.67
-25.20%
MT
ArcelorMittal
30.64
5.06
19.78%
NEM
Newmont Mining
51.53
11.07
27.36%
RIO
Rio Tinto
59.70
-5.79
-8.84%
SCCO
Southern Copper
90.14
-21.20
-19.04%
VALE
Vale SA
9.37
-2.30
-19.71%

Freeport-McMoRan Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 24, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 6.85%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 17, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call presented strong highlights in terms of sales expectations, market positioning, and operational progress, especially in the US and Indonesia. However, challenges remain with export permits in Indonesia and potential tariff impacts on costs. Despite these concerns, the overall outlook remains positive with strategic initiatives in place for growth.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong Copper Sales and Production Expectations
Exceeded expectations on copper sales with projected quarterly copper sales volumes to average about 20% more in the remainder of the year. Gold sales are expected to average nearly four times the first quarter rates, and unit net cash costs are expected to be 30% lower on average in the remaining quarters.
US Copper Market Premium
US copper pricing has reflected market expectations for a tariff on US imports, with the premium currently approximately 13% above LME. This premium implies an approximate $800 million bottom-line annual financial benefit on Freeport's US copper sales.
Progress in Indonesia
Significant progress in Indonesia with the smelter repairs ahead of schedule and strong production expected from Grasberg in the balance of the year. The Precious Metals refinery was inaugurated by the president of Indonesia.
Autonomous Haul Truck Conversion
Successful conversion of 12 out of 33 autonomous trucks at the Baghdad site, with expectations to complete the rest in the coming months, leading to significant efficiency gains.
Leach Innovation Projects
Continued momentum on low-cost leach innovation projects in the US with a target of reaching 300 million pounds per annum by 2025 year-end, with potential to expand to 800 million pounds per annum in the future.
Negative Updates
Challenges with Export Permits in Indonesia
Potential delays in shipments due to the expiration of the current export permit in September, with future shipments relying on domestic smelting capacity.
Tariff Impacts on Cost Structure
Potential cost impacts from tariffs, especially a 45% Chinese tariff, impacting the supply chain with about 60% of the US cost base exposed to these tariffs.
Baghdad Expansion Cost Concerns
Concerns over the ability to maintain the $3.5 billion CapEx estimate for the Baghdad expansion amidst tariffs and inflationary pressures.
Company Guidance
During the Freeport-McMoRan first quarter 2025 conference call, significant guidance was provided focusing on key metrics and future outlook. The company reported $1.9 billion in EBITDA for the quarter, with expectations of improved margins and cash flows moving forward. They anticipate a 20% increase in quarterly copper sales volumes and a near fourfold increase in gold sales for the remainder of the year. Unit net cash costs are projected to be 30% lower on average in the subsequent quarters. The call highlighted ongoing projects, including a 40% increase in the leach production target, aiming for a run rate of 300 million pounds per annum by year's end, and a long-term goal of 800 million pounds per annum. The discussion also included progress on the PTFI smelter, with startup expected by May, and advancements in their US copper sales premium, currently 13% above the London Metals Exchange pricing. Additionally, capital expenditures for 2025 and 2026 are projected at $4.4 billion annually. The company remains focused on operational excellence, leveraging its extensive copper resource base, and maintaining a strong balance sheet, with a commitment to returning cash to shareholders and pursuing value-enhancing growth projects.

Freeport-McMoRan Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Freeport-McMoRan Reports Strong Q1 2025 Earnings
Positive
Apr 24, 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, Freeport-McMoRan reported a net income of $352 million, with copper sales exceeding expectations and gold sales impacted by shipment timing. The company is advancing its new smelter in Indonesia, set to start mid-2025, and is benefiting from favorable pricing for its products. Freeport maintains a strong financial position, with significant operating cash flows and capital expenditures aimed at major mining projects and new processing facilities.

Spark’s Take on FCX Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, FCX is a Outperform.

Freeport-McMoRan demonstrates strong financial performance and strategic growth initiatives, particularly in copper production, contributing positively to the score. Technical analysis indicates caution due to downward momentum, while the valuation is moderate. The earnings call reflects optimism but also highlights challenges such as geopolitical risks and increased capital expenditures. Overall, the company is well-positioned but must manage external risks and capital investments carefully.

To see Spark’s full report on FCX stock, click here.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Freeport-McMoRan Updates on Q1 2025 Operations
Neutral
Mar 31, 2025

On March 31, 2025, Freeport-McMoRan provided an operational update for the first quarter of 2025, indicating that copper and gold production met expectations. However, gold sales were impacted by shipment timing in Indonesia, although no material effect on annual sales guidance is anticipated. The company resumed concentrate export shipments from Indonesia after regulatory approvals and continues to ramp up production at its new precious metals refinery. Despite higher unit net cash costs due to shipment timing, the company expects its consolidated copper sales to align with previous guidance and anticipates higher realized copper prices compared to the London Metal Exchange average.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

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.