Yet Another Value Podcast

Old West's Brian Laks dives into metals, mining, and uranium

Aug 14, 2025
Brian Laks from Old West Management, an expert in the metals and mining sectors, dives deep into uranium, copper, and gold. He discusses the evolving uranium market and the underestimated demand, alongside copper's strategic rise due to technological advancements. Laks highlights gold's unpredictable demand drivers and the impact of tariffs on copper valuations. The conversation also touches on government support for critical minerals and how AI's energy needs are reshaping the landscape of these vital resources.
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ANECDOTE

Early Uranium Call And Active Positioning

  • Old West built uranium positions as early as 2017–2019 when the sector was a ghost town.
  • They later trimmed positions as prices rallied and re-augmented exposure when sentiment washed out in 2024.
INSIGHT

Spot vs Contract Prices And Rising Break-Evens

  • Spot mechanics differ from long-term contract pricing and producers sign blends with ceilings and floors.
  • CapEx and OpEx inflation raised break-even prices, so marginal producers need higher prices to justify projects.
ADVICE

Use A One‑To‑Three Year Tactical Horizon

  • Use a one-to-three year investment horizon to capture mispriced opportunities without waiting forever.
  • Scale exposures as valuations change and rotate into other opportunities while keeping core high-quality names.
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