Rio Tinto’s H1 underlying earnings rose to $6.9 billion, boosted by strong industrial metals prices and AI infrastructure demand.
Rio Tinto reported a 43% increase in first-half underlying earnings to $6.9 billion, driven by higher prices for copper, aluminum, and lithium. The surge reflects robust demand from AI data center expansion and power infrastructure buildout, with hyperscaler spending on AI infrastructure projected to hit $765 billion in 2026.
The company’s copper, aluminum, and lithium segments contributed 57% of its EBITDA. Operational efficiency initiatives, including cost-cutting and divestments, delivered $870 million in savings during the period. Analysts warn of potential long-term supply constraints for key metals.
Shares reacted positively to the earnings beat, underscoring investor confidence in Rio Tinto’s exposure to AI-driven industrial demand.